NCB Foundation is once again opening doors for Jamaicans to tap into the global digital economy, offering a share of J$20 million in grants through its Level Up Grant Programme. With a focus on digital skills training, the initiative is equipping unemployed and underemployed individuals with the tools needed to earn online and secure their financial independence.
Now in its fifth year, Level Up is a collaboration between NCB Foundation and Internet Income Jamaica (IIJ), an organization specializing in online entrepreneurship training. This year’s programme expands its reach, providing interactive online courses in artificial intelligence (AI), content creation, and other high-demand digital skills. Participants will gain access to live training sessions, mentorship, and hands-on support to help them navigate and succeed in the digital space.
Beyond skill-building, the programme is making a targeted impact by strengthening partnerships with Project STAR, the Jamaica Society for the Blind (JSB), Abilities Foundation, and The Domestic Violence Intervention Workshop. These collaborations ensure that vulnerable and underserved groups are prioritized in the effort to create meaningful economic opportunities.
Andrew Pairman, Deputy Chair of NCB Foundation, emphasized the programme’s broader mission:
“By working with organizations that uplift underserved communities, we are amplifying our impact and helping to build a better Jamaica.”
The success of the programme is evident—in 2024 alone, 1,745 graduates collectively earned nearly J$24 million within just two months of completing their training.
Alicia Lyttle, Founder of IIJ, highlighted the importance of digital upskilling:
“This partnership is about creating real opportunities. AI and digital skills are the future, and we’re making sure more Jamaicans are prepared to thrive in this evolving landscape.”
