Guardsman Cyber Intelligence Signs $45M Pact to Boost Cybersecurity for Small Businesses

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KINGSTON, Jamaica

In a strategic move to bolster Jamaica’s cybersecurity infrastructure for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Guardsman Cyber Intelligence (GCI), the tech division of the Guardsman Group, has signed a $45 million memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Small Business Association of Jamaica (SBAJ).

The deal, signed on July 18, 2025, at Guardsman’s Hope Road headquarters, seeks to provide affordable, cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions tailored specifically for Jamaican SMEs. The partnership aims to help these businesses comply with the Jamaica Data Protection Act (JDPA) and other key regulatory frameworks.

Strategic Support for a Vulnerable Sector

According to SBAJ’s second vice-president, Denise Williams, the pact arrives at a crucial time as small businesses are increasingly targeted by hackers, including through WhatsApp account hijackings and other digital attacks.

“This partnership is very important, having components of training, service discounts, and the creation of a website that our members will have access to,” said Williams. “We know that the cost of data protection can be very expensive, so we welcome Guardsman and any other institutions willing to help reduce compliance costs.”

Williams noted that over 700 SBAJ members stand to benefit from the initiative, with participating businesses coming from sectors such as services (40%), manufacturing (30%), and others.

What the Partnership Includes

Under the MoU:

  • Guardsman will provide customised cybersecurity services for SMEs.

  • Participating businesses will gain discounted access to security solutions.

  • A dedicated cybersecurity compliance portal will be launched.

  • Training sessions will be offered to educate small business owners on protecting their data and systems.

The Guardsman Group also emphasized that the initiative aims to empower small businesses with tools and knowledge to safely navigate the digital landscape while building long-term resilience and trust in their operations.

Aligning with DBJ and the GEMINI Programme

Williams revealed that the SBAJ is also working closely with the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) to connect members with funding through the GEMINI Programme. Launched two years ago, GEMINI helps MSMEs access professional services that improve their ability to secure bank loans and grants.

“Following a recent meeting with the DBJ, we are also looking at how small businesses can take advantage of GEMINI benefits. This will help them improve their operations and access much-needed capital,” said Williams.

Our Opinion
This MoU between Guardsman Cyber Intelligence and the SBAJ is not only timely but vital. With cyberattacks on the rise, SMEs remain among the most vulnerable. The partnership's focus on affordable compliance solutions, training, and infrastructure is a powerful step toward national digital security. It also shows that private sector collaboration can be a catalyst for transforming Jamaica’s small business economy.

Are you an SBAJ member? Stay tuned for rollout details on the upcoming training, discounts, and new compliance website. For more business updates and SME success stories, follow Mykro Wave TV JM.

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