Old Harbour business group launches GoFundMe to help COVID-hit SMEs

The move according to its president Adrian Samuda is to assist or prevent small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) within south west St Catherine hard-hit by the coronavirus pandemic from collapsing.

Launched Tuesday, the OHCC COVID-19 Relief Fund aims to raise US$30,000 for roughly “40 local businesses” operating within the fastest growing town on the island.

An application will be placed online for businesses to complete and submit along with other relevant documents, said Samuda.

“In order for a business to benefit, the business must operate in Old Harbour. A proof of address such as a utility bill is a must and a letter from a justice of the peace stating type of business, owners name and address,” Samuda explained in response to a series of questions posed by Old Harbour News.

Disbursement will be made from a minimum of $30,000 to a high of $100,000 to each successful applicant.

“The Covid Relief Fund application form will be circulated in the business groups by mid June 2020. Business owners who are interested can also email the Old Harbour Chamber of Commerce at oldharbourcc@yahoo.com,” he added.

A special committee consisting of reputable individuals, Samuda said, will meet to assess all applicants. Once approval is granted “within two weeks after assessment funds will be deposited to accepted applicant's account”.

“This money can assist with restocking or clearing backed up expenses,” he said.

The chamber president also gave the assurance that “the committee will also ensure there is full transparency and no bias or nepotism.”

To ease the burden on businesses badly affected by COVID-19, the Government of Jamaica (GOJ) has guaranteed SMEs operators a one-time $100,000 cash grant, once they have filed their 2019 tax returns and payroll returns.

While this is commendable by the government, Samuda contends that that isn’t enough to help small establishments recover.

“The government's WeCare programme alone cannot offset the expenses that are incurred by businesses as a result of both shut down and customer fallout,” said Samuda, head honcho of Kaluga Group.

“Many small businesses also have not benefited. The government alone cannot rebuild this economy. Private sector has a major role to play also. The chamber is cognizant of this fact so we initiated the GoFundMe fundraiser programme.

Asked if the OHCC has sought any financial support from its parent body the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC) or the Private Sector of Jamaica (PSOJ), Samuda said the onus is on every business group to find “unique” solutions out of this crisis for their members.

“Old Harbour Chamber of Commerce has not sought any financial aid from JCC or PSOJ. Both organizations are trying to find unique ways to raise funds to help with this crisis also. Each local chamber should initiate a fundraiser drive to help their local business community.”

CLICK HERE: Old Harbour Businesses COVID-19 Relief Fund