Small businesses are a big deal!

Today, The Gleaner is challenging the false notion that Kingston is Jamaica by introducing this business-focused product that shines the light on rural companies and business interests.

Based on careful review and evaluation, the decision was taken to address the need for greater visibility expressed by businesses outside of the metropolitan area of Kingston and St Andrew.

This monthly publication, Small Business Today, underscores The Gleaner’s commitment to erase the gap in rural coverage by reaching out to communities across the island to tell of their triumphs and unveil their challenges in search of solutions.

We are partnering with various stakeholders in business, including the chambers of commerce, to publish this niche product. Like the chambers, we believe that the economic future of the country lies in the hands of small and medium-size companies and facilities because they are nimble enough to reconfigure themselves to take advantage of new markets and new technologies.

This product will proudly introduce Jamaica to a new breed of entrepreneurs who, through grit and determination, are moving ahead, while telling the stories of how some venerable businesses have been able to survive the vagaries of the world of commerce and finance.

We will also share their concerns and point to the challenges that are holding back or even threatening to overwhelm some businesses.

“We are constantly evaluating how we cover communities and how we develop our products to expand our national leadership in media,” said Garfield Grandison, who is overseeing production.

Although focused on rural news, we are offering the kind of information and critical communication that will be valuable to every business and is intended to help streamline and simplify their work.

With its unique presence in print, online and electronic platforms, the information will reach the widest possible audience in Jamaica and the diaspora.