In short
A Jamaican business starts with an Approved Financial Institution, or AFI. DBJ states three steps: request a DBJ loan from the AFI, let the AFI appraise the project, then the AFI applies to DBJ if it approves the project.
DBJ's general criteria include registration in Jamaica, a valid Tax Compliance Letter, a legal, technically feasible, financially viable and environmentally sound project, capacity to generate jobs and earn or save foreign exchange, and AFI approval. The AFI may require a business or strategic plan, but its own credit policy sets the detailed content.
The application route
- Visit an AFI. Ask for DBJ financing through that institution.
- The AFI appraises the project. Its requirements may include registration, proof of income, proof of collateral, identification and a business or strategic plan.
- The AFI applies to DBJ. This happens only if the AFI approves the application.
- DBJ funds the AFI for on-lending. The owner remains subject to the AFI's credit decision and conditions.
Prepare for both finance and support
Bring registration and tax compliance, recent financial statements and bank statements, cash flow projections, evidence for the project cost and any collateral the AFI requests. Ask the AFI for its checklist before finalising the plan because DBJ publishes no common plan outline or projection period.
DBJ's Voucher for Technical Assistance has funded services such as business-plan preparation and financial statements. The held sources disagree on current voucher ceilings, so this page does not quote one. Confirm availability and the current amount with DBJ or the AFI.
Questions owners ask
Do I apply directly to DBJ?
No. DBJ directs businesses to an Approved Financial Institution, which appraises the project and applies to DBJ for funding if it approves the loan.
Does DBJ require a business plan?
DBJ says a business or strategic plan may be required. The AFI sets the detailed requirement under its own credit policy.
What general eligibility does DBJ publish?
Registration in Jamaica, a valid Tax Compliance Letter, a legal, technically feasible, financially viable and environmentally sound project, capacity to generate jobs and earn or save foreign exchange, and AFI approval.
Can EICCIO Advisors submit to the AFI for me?
No. We can prepare the plan, cash flow, records and compliance with the owner. The owner signs and submits, and the AFI and DBJ decide.
Last checked against these sources on 18 September 2026: Development Bank of Jamaica, How to Apply.
See also: Regional financing guide · Caribbean Development Bank
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