Jamaica Observer
JN Bank commits to helping farmers, agribusinesses strengthen resilience
KINGSTON, Jamaica—Underscoring its decades of contributions to the development of the business sector in Jamaica and its strong strategic partnership with multilateral and state entities, such as the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ), JN Bank outlined its support for businesses and farmers participating in the recent 2026 staging of the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show in Clarendon, helping them to build resilience, expand operations and recover from challenges post Hurricane Melissa.
Speaking directly to farmers and agribusiness operators on Emancipation Day, which marked day two of the three-day expo, Janordo Patterson, credit solutions manager in JN Bank’s Business Banking Division, said the institution remains focused on providing practical support to agricultural stakeholders, including manufacturers and agro-processors, who play a vital role in the country's development and food security.
"The path forward is not easy, but your resilience is unmatched," Patterson said. "Whether you are a farmer, an agro-processor, a supplier or an agribusiness operator, you are the backbone of your communities and the heart of Jamaica's future."
He noted that JN Bank offers a range of financial solutions designed specifically to meet the needs of the agricultural sector. These include the bank's AgriMax loan, offered through its partnership with the DBJ which provides farmers and business operators in agriculture with financing of up to $40 million or 90 per cent of project costs. Repayment is up to 10 years.
Ann-Marie Williams Swaby, client relations manager for JN Bank Small Business Loans, shares advice with a patron at the recent Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show in Clarendon. JN Bank is offering small farmers and micro business operators in the agricultural sector two solutions to assist with purchasing livestock, seeds, and expansion.
Farmers and agribusiness operators can also access financing through the M5 Business Recovery Programme, which offers loans of up to $50 million at an interest rate of eight per cent per annum.
Patterson also outlined that JN Bank provides support for working capital needs, capital expenditure projects, and climate-smart and green loans, helping agricultural enterprises invest in productivity, sustainability and long-term growth.
He was supported by Ann-Marie Williams Swaby, client relations manager JN Bank Small Business Loans- JN Bank’s microfinancing division- who also explained that the company has established solutions for small farmers and micro and small business operators in agriculture, which include training and technical support to clients where it is needed.
“Farming is a way of life- a commitment to perseverance, hard work and sustainability. You should not have to walk this path alone,” she assured farmers and business operators attending the workshop.
She pointed out that JN Bank offers two main solutions to small and micro businesses in the sector- the Agriculture Loan for financing agricultural projects and the Agriculture Plus for expansion and investment in assets, such as for the purchasing of seeds, livestock, farm equipment and to conduct general upgrade of the farm. Small farmers and businesses can access from $200,000 to $500,000 under the Agriculture Loan and between $500,000 and $1.5 million under Agriculture Plus.
“Collateral is required, but through our strategic and strong relationship with the DBJ, there is the opportunity for you to use your household appliances as security, because we understand that our farmers don’t always own the land or equipment they use in the operation of their farms, which are the assets traditionally used as collateral to access credit,” she outlined.
Patterson noted that JN Bank’s offerings reflect the company’s commitment to providing more than financing.
"JN Bank is here to provide practical relief, flexible funding and genuine partnership," he said. "We understand the opportunities and challenges facing agriculture, and we are committed to helping farmers and agribusinesses access the resources they need to grow, adapt and succeed."
He pointed to the experience of Clarendon farmer Donovan Carridice, who rebuilt his farming operation after suffering significant losses from hurricanes, as an example of the resilience that continues to define Jamaica's agricultural sector. Through support from JN Bank, Carridice was able to restart operations and work towards expanding production despite repeated setbacks.
"As you rebuild and continue feeding our nation, know that JN Bank is walking with you," Patterson said. "Together, we are cultivating a path to a better Jamaica. Whatever the challenge, we will help you find a way."
10 hours ago
