Despite being a nation with high tourism rates, many people in Jamaica are living in low-income communities due to slow economic development and a history of unemployment on the island. On this volunteer trip, travelers with prior business experience will support small businesses in low-income communities to scale their operations, improve operational efficiency, and apply for grants and funding. Through this program, volunteers will support small businesses and start-ups in applying for grants, act as business mentors to provide guidance, and assist with social media management, financial planning, IT, and website design. Volunteers wil gain experience in networking with local communities, develop their teaching and communication skills, and experience the local culture of Jamaica. This is an ideal program for volunteers looking to apply and share business skills they have developed during their studies and get real-world experience. During their free time, they can explore the island by taking excursions to the jungle to see waterfalls, relaxing on the beaches, or exploring the port town of Ocho Rios - which is near where volunteers will be based in St. Mary.
This is a minimum 1-week and maximum 8-week trip that costs $535 for one week, led by IVHQ, a volunteer travel company with 338 projects in 50 countries, rated #1 Volunteer Travel Company by Go Overseas 7 years in a row. It is a cost-effective option with some programs as low as $20 per day with accommodation and meals included. They are a Certified B Corporation, 100% carbon neutral and every project aligns with a UN Sustainable Development Goal.