The Trust for the Americas Re-launches Its DIA Urban Innovation Lab in LASCO Chin Foundation’s Entrepreneurship Hub in Jamaica

Kingston, Jamaica – October 2nd, 2024 – In today's rapidly evolving digital world, access to technology and digital literacy is critical to unlocking opportunities for economic growth and social development. In Jamaica, the digital divide continues to hinder the potential of many young people, limiting access to essential resources, education, and job opportunities. As the island moves towards a more digitally driven future, bridging this gap has become imperative to ensure equitable access to the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in a global economy. 

In a major step towards addressing this challenge, Citi Foundation, LASCO Chin Foundation (LCF), The Trust for the Americas, an organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS), and the Institute of Law and Economics (ILE) celebrated the relaunch of the DIA Urban Innovation Lab in the Entrepreneurship Hub of the LCF in Kingston. This space will provide young people with vital access to technology, training in digital skills, and business and job readiness programs, helping to boost their employability and create sustainable livelihood opportunities. 

Dwayne Gutzmer, CEO, Institute of Law & Economics delivered the introductions and opening remarks, highlighting the importance of community-driven projects that uplift local entrepreneurs, promote urban transformation, and create opportunities for all Jamaicans. He also pointed to noteworthy beneficiaries, such as Jermaine Bryan from Montego Bay, whose Blueprint Farms project focuses on sustainable and revolutionary, soil-less vertical farming technology for more efficient food production. 

During the live event, Rodrigo Iriani, Senior Manager at The Trust for the Americas, highlighted the importance of the Lab's contributions to Jamaica's youth. He stated, "For years, through initiatives like the DIA Urban Innovation Lab in Jamaica, we have strived to give young people the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Through the Lab’s achievements, we’ve witnessed the innovative spirit of Jamaica’s youth. From sustainable urban design projects to digital technology solutions, the impact has been nothing short of remarkable. With strong support from both local and international partners, we have been able to foster creativity, knowledge-sharing, and problem-solving, addressing some of Jamaica's most pressing urban and social challenges." 

Speaking on the LCF entrepreneurial journey, Professor Rosalea Hamilton, Chief Executive Officer at the foundation, reflected on Former Chairman Lascelles Chin’s commitment to similar initiatives, noting, “He was personally involved in the entrepreneurship programme…providing personal financial support to two of our exceptional entrepreneurs because of their impact on their communities. Leadership from the top matters, and I am so pleased that the leadership from the top continues with our new Chairman James Rawle.” 

The Trust’s DIA Urban Innovation Lab in Jamaica is part of a broader effort spearheaded by The Trust for the Americas, which, since 2016, has successfully impacted the lives of over 14,000 young people and professionals across nine countries. Through these labs, almost 2,000 individuals have launched innovative projects that benefit their communities, showcasing the transformative power of digital literacy and training. These Labs provide access to technology and resources to foster entrepreneurship and employability, equipping participants with essential job and life skills. 

With the launch of this new space in Jamaica, The Trust for the Americas aims to continue scaling positive outcomes, empowering even more Jamaican youth to harness the power of digital technology and entrepreneurship. By bridging the digital divide, the Lab is creating a pathway for young Jamaicans to become leaders in their communities, ensuring they have the knowledge, skills, and resources to thrive in an increasingly digital global economy. 

This initiative is a testament to the strong collaboration between local and international partners, all united by a shared vision to uplift Jamaica’s youth and foster sustainable development through innovation and technology. The Innovation Lab stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for young people across Jamaica, helping to close the digital gap and create a brighter, more inclusive future for all. 

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About The Trust for the Americas:     

The Trust for the Americas is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS). It was established in 1997 to promote public and private sector participation in social and economic development projects in Latin America and the Caribbean. Our initiatives, implemented through local partner organizations, seek to improve access to economic opportunities as well as to foster innovation in vulnerable communities in the hemisphere. To this end, The Trust also promotes social inclusion and good governance. The Trust has offices in Washington, D.C., Colombia, and Canada.       

More information: www.thetrustfortheamericas.org