JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation supports Vincent HoSang Venture Competition

JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation has announced that it will be the gold sponsor of the Vincent HoSang UWI Venture Competition (UWIVC), hosted by the Mona School of Business and Management (MSBM).

The UWIVC, a flagship initiative of the Vincent HoSang Entrepreneurship Programme (VHEP), is designed to equip UWI students and researchers with the tools, mentorship, and mindset to transform bold ideas into viable businesses. Through intensive bootcamps, expert coaching, and post-competition incubation, the programme nurtures innovation and resilience qualities – essential for navigating today’s entrepreneurial landscape.

“We believe in the power of young people to shape the future,” said Kim Mair, CEO of the JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation. “This competition is more than a pitch event – it’s a launchpad for transformation. We are proud to walk alongside these students as they take the leap, embrace uncertainty, and unlock their full potential. Our support is rooted in our belief that greatness lies within each individual, and with the right support, they can rise to meet any challenge.”

The foundation’s sponsorship, valued at J$1.2 million, directly supports the delivery of high-impact training sessions, including the Corporate Social Responsibility Bootcamp, which encourages students to build businesses that uplift communities – not just bottom lines. It also enables the participation of seasoned JMMB professionals as mentors and judges, enriching the learning experience with real-world insights.

This year’s competition was launched on September 24, and will culminate in a finals and awards ceremony on January 23, 2026. Participants will benefit from a rigorous schedule of activities, including workshops on marketing, venture financing, and presentation skills, as well as personalised mentorship and post-competition support.

Past participants like Sim’s Seasonings, PreeLabs, and Queritel have gone on to commercial success, thanks in part to the strategic guidance and resources provided through the programme.

“Our partnership with MSBM and the Vincent HoSang Family Foundation is a natural extension of our commitment to nation-building through education and entrepreneurship,” Mair added.

For more information about the Vincent HoSang UWI Venture Competition, visit www.mona.uwi.edu/msbm or follow @VincentHoSangUWIVentureCompetition on social media.