IGNITE
Through technical assistance and grant funding to eligible innovative start-ups/entrepreneurs’ and small businesses, IGNITE assist in idea development, commercialization or scaling of new process, products/service.
IGNITE promotes innovative business models, increase capacity, improved processes, sophistication, and entry to new markets; as well all related activities.
IGNITE support is available through two Windows: Ideation and Commercialization
AWARD
Ideation (Up to J$3M): This line will support new ideas for emerging technologies that have the potential to become a viable high-growth business.
Commercialization (Up to J$7M):This line will support activities to enable the commercialization of new ideas/technology and will focus on supporting emerging technologies (at the early stage of commercialization).
Projects that are eligible for support under IGNITE must be INNOVATIVE!
What is INNOVATION
“An innovation is a new or improved product or process (or combination thereof) that differs significantly from the business’s previous products or processes and that has been made available to potential users (product) or brought into use by the business (process).”
A product innovation is a new or improved good or service that differs significantly from the firm’s previous goods or services and that has been introduced on the market.
A business process innovation is a new or improved business process for one or more business functions that differs significantly from the firm’s previous business processes and that has been brought into use by the firm.
Innovation activities include all developmental, financial and commercial activities undertaken by a firm that are intended to result in an innovation for the firm.
[1] OECD/Eurostat (2018), Oslo Manual 2018: Guidelines for Collecting, Reporting and Using Data on Innovation, 4th Edition, The Measurement of Scientific, Technological and Innovation Activities, OECD Publishing, Paris/Eurostat, Luxembourg, https://doi.org/10.1787/9789264304604-en.
https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/sites/9789264304604-3-en/index.htmltemId=/content/component/9789264304604-3-en (accessed: 14 October 2022 0730AM)
Ideation
Window
For start-up entrepreneurs and small businesses in the idea stage of their product development.
Commercialization
Window
Supporting emerging technologies at the early stage of commercialization,
Eligible IGNITE Categories
Software and ICT Industries
Artisan Products and Creative Industries
Agri-Tech
Light-Manufacturing
Climate Change
Gender Inclusion
Innovation in Emerging Technologies
APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS
Applications are to be submitted via the link provided below
IGNITE STAGES AND TIMELINES
IGNITE Info
APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS
Application Process
REVIEW PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
THINKBIGEE.COM
SELECT A BSI TO REVIEW YOUR CONCEPT
GATHER REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
THINKBIGEE.COM/SERVICE/SEED-FUND/
COMPLETE THE ONLINE APPLICATION WITH BSI
YOUNOODLE.COM/COMPETITION/IGNITE
SUBMIT COMPELTED APPLICATION
VIA YOUNOODLE PLATFORM
SHORTLISTED APPLICANT NOTIFIED
6 WEEKS AFTER CLOSE
Selection Process
REVIEW PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
THINKBIGEE.COM
SELECT A BSI TO REVIEW YOUR CONCEPT
GATHER REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
THINKBIGEE.COM/SERVICE/SEED-FUND/
COMPLETE THE ONLINE APPLICATION WITH BSI
YOUNOODLE.COM/COMPETITION/IGNITE
SUBMIT COMPELTED APPLICATION
VIA YOUNOODLE PLATFORM
SHORTLISTED APPLICANT NOTIFIED
6 WEEKS AFTER CLOSE
Overview
This window is designed for start-up entrepreneurs and small businesses in the idea stage of their product development. Funding is provided to complete testing and to create a minimum viable working prototype of their ideas or scale their business. Businesses in the Idea Stage are eligible for up to J$3M in grant financing.
eligibility requirements Criteria
Ideation
None
Maximum of J$3M
· 70% of the total project cost
Provide or demonstrate access to 30% of the cost to execute the project.
Minimum cash counterpart required is 10% total project cost
Ideation
Registered company and business operating before April 1, 2020 (minimum 1 year old) and no earlier than April 1, 2014
(not exceeding 7 years old)
Maximum of J$3M
· 70% of the total project cost
Provide or demonstrate access to 30% of the cost to execute the project.Minimum cash counterpart required is 10% total project cost
The product or service has no adverse environmental impact.
OverView
This window will support emerging technologies at the early stage of commercialization, looking to transform their scientific discovery into market-ready products and services or penetrate new market.
Businesses in the Early Stage are eligible for up to J$7M in grant financing.
Eligibility requirements for Early Stage businesses
Prototype or product created and tested with the market
– demonstrated market traction indicated by sales
Maximum of J$7M
70% of the total project cost
Average annual revenue of last three (3) year’s revenue must be at least 50% the amount of grant resources being applied for.
Maximum revenue of J$75M
Provide or demonstrate access to 30% of the total project cost committed to the execution of the IGNITE project.
Minimum cash required as counterpart 50% (15% of total project cost)
This must include all associated labour cost required to successfully implement the said project
The product or service has no adverse environmental impact.
Prototype or product created and tested with the market
– demonstrated market traction indicated by sales
Registered company and business operating for a minimum of two (2) years and a maximum of seven (7) years
Maximum of J$7M
70% of the total project cost
Average annual revenue of last three (3) year’s revenue must be at least 50% the amount of grant resources being applied for.
· Maximum revenue of J$75M
| Provide or demonstrate access to 30% of the total project cost committed to the execution of the IGNITE project. Minimum cash required as counterpart 50% (15% of total project cost) This must include all associated labour cost required to successfully implement the said project |
The product or service has no adverse environmental impact.
Eligibility requirements for Early Stage businesses
Administrative
- Corporate Administrative expenses (including marketing and salaries)
amounting to no more than 20% of the grant amount
- Costs of legal incorporation Purchase/rental of non-critical assets (e.g. buildings, vehicles, and furniture)
- Overhead costs charged to employee labour rates GCT (only if the beneficiary is registered to collect this tax) Utilities
- Debt restructuring payment of capital gains, or recovering of already
invested capital collateral to secure a loan or repay a loan, unlading,
(irrespective of no-for-interests, of repaying a loan - Payment of local and national taxes, fees, permits, etc. except GCT
- Banking of export-related charges/fees, duty, etc.
Materials
- Raw Materials and consumables necessary to achieve proof of concept
- Construction of infrastructure except where inextricably linked to proof of concept
Capital Assets & Software
- Equipment/software and machinery required to execute the project whether new or used
- Transfer of assets including equities, shares in social capital
Technical Assistance
- Business Services Intermediaries
- External fees for Consultancies, professional and legal fees, as well as technical assistance;
- Training activities related to the project activities;
- Payments to individuals or firms belonging to individuals including in the principals of beneficiary companies.
Product Launch
- Activities leading to a product launch to the market such as market research, marketing, and advertising costs
Technology
- Acquisition of technological licenses
- Implementation of quality systems
The following outlines the eligibility requirements for the Innovation Grant Fund :
How much can I access under IGNITE III?
The Ideation Window offers applicants up to J$3Million in grant, and Commercialization Window offers up to J$7Million in grant.
How much do I need to be earning to obtain a grant?
Your business must have revenue not exceeding J$75 Million annually.
How long does my business have to be in operation to apply for IGNITE?
Ideation: Registered company and business operating before April 1, 2020 (minimum 1 year old) and no earlier than April 1, 2014 (not exceeding 7 years old)
Commercialization: Registered between 2 and 7 years
What is the process to submit my application?
Applications can only be submitted via the website.
Which sectors are eligible to access this fund?
1. Software and ICT Industries
2. Artisan products and Creative Industries
3. Agri-Tech
4. Light-Manufacturing
5. Climate change,
6. Gender inclusion and
7. Innovation in emerging technologies (including Big Data, Manufacturing, Electronics, Biotechnology Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, etc.).
What are the interest rate and timeline for the payback of this product?
The IGNITE grant is not a loan and is non-repayable.
What are some examples of in-kind contributions?
An in-kind contribution is a contribution of a good or service other than money which includes donated services, donated goods, or labour that can be valued.
Do I have to have an innovative product to apply for this fund?
In order to remain competitive, it is strongly encouraged that you are planning to execute an innovative venture.
Who are the BSI?
Business Service Intermediaries (BSIs) will assist you to prepare your application and if selected will create your development plan and provide project management support during the implementation of the programme over the 12 month period. See our List of BSIs
The following outlines the eligibility requirements for the Innovation Grant Fund :
How much can I access under IGNITE III?
The Ideation Window offers applicants up to J$3Million in grant, and Commercialization Window offers up to J$7Million in grant.
How much do I need to be earning to obtain a grant?
Your business must have revenue not exceeding J$75 Million annually.
How long does my business have to be in operation to apply for IGNITE?
Ideation: Registered company and business operating before April 1, 2020 (minimum 1 year old) and no earlier than April 1, 2014 (not exceeding 7 years old)
Commercialization: Registered between 2 and 7 years
What is the process to submit my application?
Applications can only be submitted via the website.
Which sectors are eligible to access this fund?
1. Software and ICT Industries
2. Artisan products and Creative Industries
3. Agri-Tech
4. Light-Manufacturing
5. Climate change,
6. Gender inclusion and
7. Innovation in emerging technologies (including Big Data, Manufacturing, Electronics, Biotechnology Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, etc.).
What are the interest rate and timeline for the payback of this product?
The IGNITE grant is not a loan and is non-repayable.
What are some examples of in-kind contributions?
An in-kind contribution is a contribution of a good or service other than money which includes donated services, donated goods, or labour that can be valued.
Do I have to have an innovative product to apply for this fund?
In order to remain competitive, it is strongly encouraged that you are planning to execute an innovative venture.
Who are the BSI?
Business Service Intermediaries (BSIs) will assist you to prepare your application and if selected will create your development plan and provide project management support during the implementation of the programme over the 12 month period. See our List of BSIs
Jamaica Business Development Corporation
Amanda McKenzie
Manager, Project Management & Research Department
14 Camp Road | Kingston 4
Email: [email protected]
Tel: (O) 876.928.5161-5
Jamaica Manufacturer’s and Exporters Association
Najuequa Barnes
Manager, Business Development and Programmes
85A Duke Street, Kingston
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 876 922-8880-3
Scientific Research Council
Carlinton Burrell
Project Manager
Caribbean Climate Innovation Centre
Hope Gardens Complex, Hope Gardens
P.O. BOX 350, Kingston 6
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 876 927 1771 (office)
University of Technology, Jamaica,
Andrea Bolton-Fyffe
Incubator Manager
University of Technology
College of Business and Management
Technology Innovation Centre,
237 Old Hope Road, Kingston
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 876-970-5501 Ext 2501, (876) 322-8025 (CUG)
Sisters’ Ink Jamaica Limited
Opal Levy
Director
Suite # 6, 107A Constant Spring Road, Kingston 8
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 876 649 0484, 876 615 3375, M: 876 431 8823
Kingston Creative Limited
Andrea Dempster Chung
Executive Director
107 Harbour Street, Kingston
Email: [email protected]
Tel: (O) (876) 546-6943
TBR Lab
Kirk-Anthony Hamilton
Co-Founder and Director
Robin Kelton Building, Choc Bay, Castries, St. Lucia
Email:
APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS
Application Process
REVIEW PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
THINKBIGEE.COM
SELECT A BSI TO REVIEW YOUR CONCEPT
GATHER REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
THINKBIGEE.COM/SERVICE/SEED-FUND/
COMPLETE THE ONLINE APPLICATION WITH BSI
YOUNOODLE.COM/COMPETITION/IGNITE
SUBMIT COMPELTED APPLICATION
VIA YOUNOODLE PLATFORM
SHORTLISTED APPLICANT NOTIFIED
6 WEEKS AFTER CLOSE
Selection Process
REVIEW PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
THINKBIGEE.COM
SELECT A BSI TO REVIEW YOUR CONCEPT
GATHER REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
THINKBIGEE.COM/SERVICE/SEED-FUND/
COMPLETE THE ONLINE APPLICATION WITH BSI
YOUNOODLE.COM/COMPETITION/IGNITE
SUBMIT COMPELTED APPLICATION
VIA YOUNOODLE PLATFORM
SHORTLISTED APPLICANT NOTIFIED
6 WEEKS AFTER CLOSE
Overview
This window is designed for start-up entrepreneurs and small businesses in the idea stage of their product development. Funding is provided to complete testing and to create a minimum viable working prototype of their ideas or scale their business. Businesses in the Idea Stage are eligible for up to J$3M in grant financing.
eligibility requirements Criteria
Ideation
None
Maximum of J$3M
· 70% of the total project cost
Provide or demonstrate access to 30% of the cost to execute the project.
Minimum cash counterpart required is 10% total project cost
Ideation
Registered company and business operating before April 1, 2020 (minimum 1 year old) and no earlier than April 1, 2014
(not exceeding 7 years old)
Maximum of J$3M
· 70% of the total project cost
Provide or demonstrate access to 30% of the cost to execute the project.Minimum cash counterpart required is 10% total project cost
The product or service has no adverse environmental impact.
OverView
This window will support emerging technologies at the early stage of commercialization, looking to transform their scientific discovery into market-ready products and services or penetrate new market.
Businesses in the Early Stage are eligible for up to J$7M in grant financing.
Eligibility requirements for Early Stage businesses
Prototype or product created and tested with the market
– demonstrated market traction indicated by sales
Maximum of J$7M
70% of the total project cost
Average annual revenue of last three (3) year’s revenue must be at least 50% the amount of grant resources being applied for.
Maximum revenue of J$75M
Provide or demonstrate access to 30% of the total project cost committed to the execution of the IGNITE project.
Minimum cash required as counterpart 50% (15% of total project cost)
This must include all associated labour cost required to successfully implement the said project
The product or service has no adverse environmental impact.
Prototype or product created and tested with the market
– demonstrated market traction indicated by sales
Registered company and business operating for a minimum of two (2) years and a maximum of seven (7) years
Maximum of J$7M
70% of the total project cost
Average annual revenue of last three (3) year’s revenue must be at least 50% the amount of grant resources being applied for.
· Maximum revenue of J$75M
| Provide or demonstrate access to 30% of the total project cost committed to the execution of the IGNITE project. Minimum cash required as counterpart 50% (15% of total project cost) This must include all associated labour cost required to successfully implement the said project |
The product or service has no adverse environmental impact.
Eligibility requirements for Early Stage businesses
Administrative
- Corporate Administrative expenses (including marketing and salaries)
amounting to no more than 20% of the grant amount
- Costs of legal incorporation Purchase/rental of non-critical assets (e.g. buildings, vehicles, and furniture)
- Overhead costs charged to employee labour rates GCT (only if the beneficiary is registered to collect this tax) Utilities
- Debt restructuring payment of capital gains, or recovering of already
invested capital collateral to secure a loan or repay a loan, unlading,
(irrespective of no-for-interests, of repaying a loan - Payment of local and national taxes, fees, permits, etc. except GCT
- Banking of export-related charges/fees, duty, etc.
Materials
- Raw Materials and consumables necessary to achieve proof of concept
- Construction of infrastructure except where inextricably linked to proof of concept
Capital Assets & Software
- Equipment/software and machinery required to execute the project whether new or used
- Transfer of assets including equities, shares in social capital
Technical Assistance
- Business Services Intermediaries
- External fees for Consultancies, professional and legal fees, as well as technical assistance;
- Training activities related to the project activities;
- Payments to individuals or firms belonging to individuals including in the principals of beneficiary companies.
Product Launch
- Activities leading to a product launch to the market such as market research, marketing, and advertising costs
Technology
- Acquisition of technological licenses
- Implementation of quality systems
The following outlines the eligibility requirements for the Innovation Grant Fund :
How much can I access under IGNITE III?
The Ideation Window offers applicants up to J$3Million in grant, and Commercialization Window offers up to J$7Million in grant.
How much do I need to be earning to obtain a grant?
Your business must have revenue not exceeding J$75 Million annually.
How long does my business have to be in operation to apply for IGNITE?
Ideation: Registered company and business operating before April 1, 2020 (minimum 1 year old) and no earlier than April 1, 2014 (not exceeding 7 years old)
Commercialization: Registered between 2 and 7 years
What is the process to submit my application?
Applications can only be submitted via the website.
Which sectors are eligible to access this fund?
1. Software and ICT Industries
2. Artisan products and Creative Industries
3. Agri-Tech
4. Light-Manufacturing
5. Climate change,
6. Gender inclusion and
7. Innovation in emerging technologies (including Big Data, Manufacturing, Electronics, Biotechnology Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, etc.).
What are the interest rate and timeline for the payback of this product?
The IGNITE grant is not a loan and is non-repayable.
What are some examples of in-kind contributions?
An in-kind contribution is a contribution of a good or service other than money which includes donated services, donated goods, or labour that can be valued.
Do I have to have an innovative product to apply for this fund?
In order to remain competitive, it is strongly encouraged that you are planning to execute an innovative venture.
Who are the BSI?
Business Service Intermediaries (BSIs) will assist you to prepare your application and if selected will create your development plan and provide project management support during the implementation of the programme over the 12 month period. See our List of BSIs
The following outlines the eligibility requirements for the Innovation Grant Fund :
How much can I access under IGNITE III?
The Ideation Window offers applicants up to J$3Million in grant, and Commercialization Window offers up to J$7Million in grant.
How much do I need to be earning to obtain a grant?
Your business must have revenue not exceeding J$75 Million annually.
How long does my business have to be in operation to apply for IGNITE?
Ideation: Registered company and business operating before April 1, 2020 (minimum 1 year old) and no earlier than April 1, 2014 (not exceeding 7 years old)
Commercialization: Registered between 2 and 7 years
What is the process to submit my application?
Applications can only be submitted via the website.
Which sectors are eligible to access this fund?
1. Software and ICT Industries
2. Artisan products and Creative Industries
3. Agri-Tech
4. Light-Manufacturing
5. Climate change,
6. Gender inclusion and
7. Innovation in emerging technologies (including Big Data, Manufacturing, Electronics, Biotechnology Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, etc.).
What are the interest rate and timeline for the payback of this product?
The IGNITE grant is not a loan and is non-repayable.
What are some examples of in-kind contributions?
An in-kind contribution is a contribution of a good or service other than money which includes donated services, donated goods, or labour that can be valued.
Do I have to have an innovative product to apply for this fund?
In order to remain competitive, it is strongly encouraged that you are planning to execute an innovative venture.
Who are the BSI?
Business Service Intermediaries (BSIs) will assist you to prepare your application and if selected will create your development plan and provide project management support during the implementation of the programme over the 12 month period. See our List of BSIs
The following outlines the eligibility requirements for the Innovation Grant Fund :
How much can I access under IGNITE III?
The Ideation Window offers applicants up to J$3Million in grant, and Commercialization Window offers up to J$7Million in grant.
How much do I need to be earning to obtain a grant?
Your business must have revenue not exceeding J$75 Million annually.
How long does my business have to be in operation to apply for IGNITE?
Ideation: Registered company and business operating before April 1, 2020 (minimum 1 year old) and no earlier than April 1, 2014 (not exceeding 7 years old)
Commercialization: Registered between 2 and 7 years
What is the process to submit my application?
Applications can only be submitted via the website.
Which sectors are eligible to access this fund?
1. Software and ICT Industries
2. Artisan products and Creative Industries
3. Agri-Tech
4. Light-Manufacturing
5. Climate change,
6. Gender inclusion and
7. Innovation in emerging technologies (including Big Data, Manufacturing, Electronics, Biotechnology Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, etc.).
What are the interest rate and timeline for the payback of this product?
The IGNITE grant is not a loan and is non-repayable.
What are some examples of in-kind contributions?
An in-kind contribution is a contribution of a good or service other than money which includes donated services, donated goods, or labour that can be valued.
Do I have to have an innovative product to apply for this fund?
In order to remain competitive, it is strongly encouraged that you are planning to execute an innovative venture.
Who are the BSI?
Business Service Intermediaries (BSIs) will assist you to prepare your application and if selected will create your development plan and provide project management support during the implementation of the programme over the 12 month period. See our List of BSIs
The following outlines the eligibility requirements for the Innovation Grant Fund :
How much can I access under IGNITE III?
The Ideation Window offers applicants up to J$3Million in grant, and Commercialization Window offers up to J$7Million in grant.
How much do I need to be earning to obtain a grant?
Your business must have revenue not exceeding J$75 Million annually.
How long does my business have to be in operation to apply for IGNITE?
Ideation: Registered company and business operating before April 1, 2020 (minimum 1 year old) and no earlier than April 1, 2014 (not exceeding 7 years old)
Commercialization: Registered between 2 and 7 years
What is the process to submit my application?
Applications can only be submitted via the website.
Which sectors are eligible to access this fund?
1. Software and ICT Industries
2. Artisan products and Creative Industries
3. Agri-Tech
4. Light-Manufacturing
5. Climate change,
6. Gender inclusion and
7. Innovation in emerging technologies (including Big Data, Manufacturing, Electronics, Biotechnology Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, etc.).
What are the interest rate and timeline for the payback of this product?
The IGNITE grant is not a loan and is non-repayable.
What are some examples of in-kind contributions?
An in-kind contribution is a contribution of a good or service other than money which includes donated services, donated goods, or labour that can be valued.
Do I have to have an innovative product to apply for this fund?
In order to remain competitive, it is strongly encouraged that you are planning to execute an innovative venture.
Who are the BSI?
Business Service Intermediaries (BSIs) will assist you to prepare your application and if selected will create your development plan and provide project management support during the implementation of the programme over the 12 month period. See our List of BSIs
Resources
IGNITE'S REACH
The beneficiaries under our IGNITE span a wide-cross section of business and can be located in most parishes of Jamaica. You too can be one of our excited beneficiaries.
Ignite's Beneficiaries
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Overview The Innovation