CLARENDON, Jamaica- Micro-entrepreneurs in May Pen are stepping into a new phase of business growth, thanks to a series of targeted interventions led by Project STAR.

Following a needs assessment conducted in April, which revealed significant gaps in marketing, recordkeeping, and supplier access, the Project STAR Entrepreneurship Team hosted a transformative Business Model Canvas (BMC) workshop in June.

The session, which attracted 20 participants from the local cottage industry, was tailored to help small business owners map out the key components of their ventures, from value propositions to customer segments, revenue streams, and core activities. Through interactive learning and business modelling exercises, participants were encouraged to critically assess their operations and identify areas in need of improvement.

Among those in attendance was 54-year-old Olive Bryce, a long-time resident of Treadlight district in Clarendon and the creative force behind “Mother and Daughter Company”, a crochet business she started at the tender age of 14.

“I learnt so much. I learnt how to market my business. I learnt how to properly price my products and the value of budgeting,” Bryce shared enthusiastically. “My next step is to build a stall, travel to tourist areas to sell my products, and attend major events like Denbigh.”

Fellow participant, 40 year-old, Lafay Ann Powell, who has been crocheting since age 13 and produces intricately designed throw pillows, echoed Bryce’s sentiments.

“I learnt a lot about how to market my business and how to formally register it,” she said. “I appreciate everything that Project STAR is doing. I feel respected, loved, and appreciated.”

The workshop uncovered key gaps, particularly in marketing strategies and access to reliable sales channels, challenges that Project STAR is actively working to address.

“Our goal is to ensure that these entrepreneurs are not only inspired but equipped to run sustainable businesses,” said Saffrey Brown, project director at Project STAR. “By identifying and addressing the specific challenges they face, whether it’s pricing, marketing, or finding reliable outlets to sell, we’re helping them take actionable steps toward growth and long-term success.”

In response to the findings, she said the next phase of intervention will include a dedicated marketing workshop focused on product presentation, branding, and digital promotion. Project STAR also plans to link participants with potential sales outlets, including craft fairs, retail networks, and online marketplaces.

“These initiatives are expected to significantly increase the visibility and sustainability of businesses in the May Pen West cottage industry,” said Brown.

“By equipping entrepreneurs with the necessary tools, knowledge, and networks, Project STAR is not only helping to bolster livelihoods but is also nurturing a new wave of confident, market-savvy micro-entrepreneurs eager to share their craft with wider audiences,” she added.