Agro-Invest Showcases the Future of Jamaican Agribusiness at Denbigh 72
May Pen, Clarendon – August 2026
Agro-Investment Corporation (Agro-Invest) made a strong impression at the 72nd staging of the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show, held July 31 to August 2, 2026, at the Denbigh Showground in May Pen, Clarendon. Under this year’s theme, “Growing Forward: Cultivating a Path to a Better Jamaica,” Agro-Invest unveiled its Future of Jamaican Agribusiness Pavilion, a three-day showcase highlighting how strategic investment, innovation, and partnership are transforming Jamaica’s agricultural sector.
A Pavilion Built Around the Full Value Chain
The pavilion brought Agro-Invest’s core mission to life through an immersive journey: Invest → Produce → Process → Export. Visitors explored interactive experiences across several dedicated zones, including:
Agricultural Investment & Land Development Showcase, featuring Agro Parks investment opportunities, land and property lease engagement, and a Digital Investment Map experience
Agro-Tech Centre, where an aeroponics and aquaponics demonstration, complete with live tilapia and shrimp tanks, gave visitors a hands-on look at the future of climate-smart, controlled-environment farming
Investment Showcase, connecting visitors with Agro-Invest’s Deal Book, crop profiles, and return-on-investment opportunities across the value chain
Technology Partner Showcase, featuring Blueprint Farms (aeroponics), Skycrops Solutions (drone technology and precision agriculture), and Isratech (smart irrigation)
Agricultural Engagement Activities, including interactive games, agriculture trivia, and giveaways, alongside a product showcase featuring Jamaican agro-processing brands such as Walkerswood, Spur Tree, and Jamaican Teas
Throughout the three days, feature presentations from technology partners and stakeholders, including JAMPRO, Sky Crops Solutions, Blueprint Farms, Isratech, and Believe Farms, gave visitors deeper insight into the innovations shaping Jamaica’s agricultural future.
A Milestone Moment: The SPAD Lease Handover Ceremony
The highlight of the show came on Saturday, August 1, with the SPAD Investment Milestone & Agricultural Lease Handover Ceremony, held under the theme “Growing Forward Through Agricultural Investment.” At the ceremony, agricultural leases for the Amity Hall/Bridgepen Special Production Area Development (SPAD) were formally handed over to investors, marking a significant step in bringing additional productive acreage into cultivation.
The ceremony featured remarks from Agro-Invest Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Vivion Scully; Chairman, Mr. Ian Murray; and Director of Properties & Fixed Assets, Mr. Phillip Garvin, who outlined the SPAD project and the lease handover process. Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Floyd Green, MP, delivered the keynote address, reinforcing a message that resonated throughout the show:
“The reality is that agriculture is what is going to drive our future. No matter how we advance, food security is as important as national security.”
Celebrating Jamaica’s Farmers
Denbigh 72 also brought recognition to those at the heart of the sector. Jayadoss Prabahar, a farmer at Amity Hall Agro Park, was named National Champion Farmer, a proud moment for the entire Amity Hall community. Minard Estate also brought home several honours, including the Hi-Pro Trophy for Jamaica’s top beef cattle herd and the TP Lecky Trophy across multiple breed categories.
The show also featured the Farm Queen Tour & Challenge, hosted in partnership with the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS), giving contestants a hands-on introduction to agricultural investment through farm tours and interactive challenges at Amity Hall Agro Park.
Looking Ahead
From investment showcases to technology demonstrations to real, tangible outcomes like the SPAD lease handovers, Denbigh 72 reaffirmed Agro-Invest’s role as a catalyst for agricultural transformation in Jamaica. As the sector continues building forward, Agro-Invest remains committed to expanding access to investment opportunities, strengthening value chains, and supporting a more resilient, productive, and globally competitive agricultural future.
For more information on investment opportunities across Jamaica’s Agro Parks, visit www.agroinvest.gov.jm.
FARM QUEEN TOUR AND CHALLENGE: Celebrating Women, Agriculture and the Future of Farming
As part of its continued commitment to showcasing the many opportunities within Jamaica’s agricultural sector, Agro-Invest brought together the queens of the 2026 Farm Queen Competition for an exciting and educational Farm Queen Tour and Challenge at Denbigh 72.
The initiative formed part of Agro-Invest’s celebration of the 60th Anniversary of the Farm Queen Competition, recognising the longstanding contribution of women to Jamaica’s agricultural development and highlighting the important role they continue to play in advancing food security, entrepreneurship and rural development.
The Farm Queen Tour and Challenge provided an opportunity for participants to move beyond the traditional competition experience and immerse themselves in the world of agriculture through interactive activities designed to increase their knowledge, appreciation and understanding of the sector.
Through the initiative, queens from across Jamaica explored the connection between agriculture, innovation and investment, gaining firsthand insight into the work of farmers, the importance of crop production and the opportunities available throughout the agricultural value chain.
The highlight of the experience was the Crop Quest Rally, an engaging agricultural challenge designed to test participants’ knowledge of crops, farming practices and Jamaican agriculture. Working together in teams, participants navigated a series of activities that encouraged teamwork, problem-solving and learning in a fun and interactive environment.
The challenge allowed participants to identify crops, answer agriculture-related questions and discover interesting facts about Jamaica’s agricultural production. Beyond the excitement of the competition, the activity provided a deeper appreciation for the dedication, skill and knowledge required to grow the food that reaches Jamaican households every day.
The participating teams proudly represented different regions of the island:
Rooted Queens – representing Kingston & St. Andrew and St. Catherine, with a focus on tuber crops.
Green Queens – representing St. James, Westmoreland and Hanover, highlighting vegetable production.
Fruit Queens – representing Clarendon, Manchester and St. Elizabeth, showcasing Jamaica’s diverse fruit production.
Each team brought enthusiasm, creativity and regional pride to the challenge, demonstrating the diversity and richness of Jamaica’s agricultural landscape.
The Farm Queen Tour and Challenge also provided an important platform to highlight the role of women in agriculture. From farmers and agro-processors to entrepreneurs and community leaders, women continue to make significant contributions across the sector, driving innovation and strengthening Jamaica’s food systems.
By creating opportunities for the Farm Queens to engage directly with agriculture in a meaningful way, Agro-Invest reinforced the message that agriculture is a sector filled with possibilities for leadership, entrepreneurship and economic growth.
The initiative also complemented Agro-Invest’s broader efforts to encourage greater awareness and participation in agriculture, particularly among young people and women. Through interactive experiences such as the Farm Queen Tour and Challenge, the Corporation continues to promote agriculture as a modern, innovative and rewarding industry.
Agro-Invest was proud to support the 60th Anniversary of the Farm Queen Competition as a sponsor of Ms. Kingston & St. Andrew, celebrating the achievements, leadership and contribution of women in Jamaica’s agricultural sector. We extend sincere appreciation to the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS), the organisers of this iconic competition, for providing Agro-Invest with the opportunity to serve as brand ambassadors and to help amplify the importance of agriculture, empowerment and innovation among Jamaica’s women in agriculture.
The Corporation extends appreciation to all participants, judges, facilitators and supporters who contributed to the success of the Farm Queen Tour and Challenge. The event was a celebration of knowledge, teamwork and the powerful role women play in shaping the future of Jamaican agriculture.
As Jamaica continues to grow forward, Agro-Invest remains committed to creating platforms that inspire, educate and connect more Jamaicans with the opportunities available within the agricultural sector.
SBAJ Growth & Resilience Conference 2026
Agro-Invest at the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference 2026
Connecting the Diaspora to Jamaica’s Agricultural Future
The Agro-Investment Corporation participated in the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference 2026, held from June 14 to 18 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, Rose Hall, St. James, under the theme “Diaspora Partnerships: Re-Building a More Climate-Resilient Jamaica.”
The conference brought together Jamaican diaspora members, policymakers, investors and business leaders from across the globe for five days of high-level dialogue, partnership building and investment facilitation, all centred on Jamaica’s recovery and long-term resilience in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.
Agro-Invest on the Exhibition Floor
Agro-Invest maintained a prominent presence throughout the conference, operating an exhibition booth that served as a dedicated space for diaspora partners to explore Jamaica’s agribusiness investment landscape. Visitors engaged directly with the Agro-Invest team on available opportunities across the agency’s network of agro-parks and agricultural estates, learning how they can participate in Jamaica’s growing agri-sector.
Among the highlights of the showcase was the story of Walkerswood Caribbean Foods, a proudly Jamaican brand with operations on Agro-Invest land. The Walkerswood presence at the booth illustrated in real terms what structured agri-investment looks like and the kind of thriving partnerships that Agro-Invest is designed to enable.
High-Level Engagement
The conference provided a platform for significant agricultural dialogue at the national level. Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Floyd Green, addressed the conference on June 16, announcing Jamaica’s ambitious fruit tree planting programme, targeting 3,000 hectares of breadfruit, avocado and mango by 2035, alongside major investments in irrigation modernisation and agro-park development at Parnassus in Clarendon, Essex Valley in St. Elizabeth and Amity Hall in St. Catherine.
The Opening Ceremony on June 16 was addressed by Prime Minister the Most Honourable Andrew Holness and Opposition Leader the Honourable Mark Golding, reflecting the broad national consensus around diaspora engagement as a driver of Jamaica’s recovery and economic growth.
A Week of Meaningful Connections
Across five days, the Agro-Invest booth became a space for substantive conversation, with diaspora partners from across North America, the United Kingdom and the Caribbean leaning in on questions of land access, investment structures, crop opportunities and partnership pathways. The level of interest and engagement reflected a diaspora that is not on the sidelines but actively seeking to be part of Jamaica’s agricultural future.
Agro-Invest remains committed to facilitating those connections and turning diaspora interest into lasting investment.
Official Handing Over of the Essex Valley Agro-Processing Facility
ST. ELIZABETH — Prime Minister Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness officially commissioned the Essex Valley Agro-Processing Facility and Administrative Building on February 4, 2026. This project was developed through a partnership with UKaid and the Caribbean Development Bank to modernize agricultural infrastructure in the region. The complex serves as a central hub for the farming community in South Eastern St. Elizabeth and provides essential resources for washing, grading, and post-harvest management. By integrating these industrial capabilities directly into the production zone, the facility helps local farmers transition toward a more sustainable and high-value agro-industrial model.
The Agro-Investment Corporation is now managing the facility to ensure its operations align with international quality standards. This oversight is designed to bridge the gap between local production and large-scale commercial demand. By focusing on consistency and rigorous quality control, Agro-Invest is helping local produce meet the requirements of top-tier agro-processors and global brands. This strategic management ensures that the investment translates into tangible growth for the community while securing a more resilient supply chain for the country.
2025 MSME Business Roadshow
Agro-Investment Corporation proudly participated in the 2025 MSME Business Roadshow, supporting Jamaica’s micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) on their journey to growth and investment. Across three key stops, we engaged with entrepreneurs, showcased agribusiness opportunities, and reinforced our commitment to fostering sustainable development in the sector.
The journey began in St. Catherine, where over 70 MSMEs benefited from key services aimed at strengthening operations. With a focus on strategic networking, financing, and digital solutions, we connected with business owners eager to scale their agribusiness ventures.
Next, we joined the Clarendon leg at the JUICI Empowerment Centre, where Director General of the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ), Dr. Wayne Henry, highlighted the 18.5% increase in MSME loans in 2023. The growing confidence in the sector is a clear indicator of its role in national economic growth, and Agro-Invest remains dedicated to ensuring agriculture remains a major player in this expansion.
The final stop took us to St. Elizabeth Technical High School on March 6, 2025, where the roadshow concluded on a high note. This edition featured a Tech Corner, an MSME Village, and a Farmers Market, highlighting the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and agriculture. Senator the Hon. Aubyn Hill announced that J$14.6 million in grants were awarded to business owners over the 2023-2025 period. With over 1,600 attendees from Mandeville, Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Twickenham Park, and Clarendon Park, it was clear that Jamaica’s business community is thriving.
At Agro-Invest, we are committed to supporting MSMEs in agriculture, ensuring they have access to the resources, land, and investment opportunities needed to thrive. These roadshows reinforced the power of collaboration, funding, and innovation in unlocking Jamaica’s agri-business potential.
The road to investment and growth continues—let’s build the future of agriculture together!
Minard Livestock Show and Beef Festival 2024!
The Minard Livestock Show and Beef Festival 2024 was a vibrant celebration of agriculture, education, and community. Hosted in St. Ann, the event drew a large crowd, including hundreds of students from across Jamaica, who participated in engaging activities and won exciting prizes like goats, rabbits, and calves. This year’s theme: “Resurgence and Resilience Through Livestock Production” emphasized the vital role of livestock in food security and Jamaica’s ability to come back and become stronger through natural disasters.
Agro-Invest Corporation played a key role in highlighting agricultural investment opportunities, with Senior Director Owen Scarlett delivering remarks on behalf of CEO Vivion Scully. Guests explored livestock exhibits, enjoyed delicious beef-centered dishes, and connected with industry leaders. Games and quizzes further entertained attendees, while educational sessions on livestock care and feed enriched their understanding of the sector.
The festival’s success underscores its importance in nurturing the future of Jamaican agriculture, inspiring youth participation, and strengthening industry collaborations. Events like these continue to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice, building a robust agricultural foundation for Jamaica.
Success at the World Food Day Exhibition 2024!
The World Food Day Exhibition at Ebony Park Heart Academy in Clarendon was a rainy success! Under the theme, “Right to foods for a better life and a better future,” Agro-Invest was thrilled to engage and inspire young minds on the vital role of agriculture in our daily lives.
Despite the weather, youth participants showed enthusiasm as they learned about sustainable farming practices and food security. We also took the opportunity to reward them for their knowledge and dedication to agriculture, fostering a deeper appreciation for this essential sector.
Empowering youth is key to building sustainable agriculture and ensuring food security for all. Together, let’s cultivate a better future with the passion and energy of our young leaders!
70th Denbigh Agricultural Show With Agro-Invest
This year’s Denbigh Agricultural Industrial and Food Show was a resounding success, with Agro-Invest at the forefront of driving innovation and investment in Jamaica’s agricultural sector. From advanced technology demonstrations to meaningful discussions with key government officials, our presence at Denbigh 2024 was truly transformative.
Some of the event’s highlights were the Farmers’ Seminar, where GK Insurance provided valuable insights into their Weather Protection Plans, offering our farmers essential tools to safeguard their livelihoods against unpredictable climate challenges. WUSC presented on hurricane resilient crops and handed out cassava slips to farmers. SkyCrop Solutions had an incredible drone demonstration, showcasing their cutting-edge agriculture drone, which illustrated how technology can revolutionize farming practices, making them more efficient and sustainable.
The Agro Invest booth was a hub of activity throughout the event. Attendees were treated to a remarkable drone demonstration led by our partner, SkyCrop Solutions. Their cutting-edge Agriculture Drone showcased how technology can revolutionize farming practices, making them more efficient and sustainable. We also had the pleasure of hosting Hon. Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Hon. Minister Floyd Green, who stopped by to learn about our latest investment opportunities and innovative technologies, including our new electronic online application for the Southern Plains Agricultural Development land lease opportunity.
Our commitment to building back with resilience was further emphasized through our collaboration with @utechjamaica, who conducted a seminar on farm designs to prevent flooding. Additionally, the @forestrydepartment made a significant contribution by providing 100 ackee seedlings to farmers and patrons at our booth, reinforcing the importance of sustainable farming practices. Furthermore, the seminar conducted by WUSC on selecting hurricane-resilient crops provided farmers with essential knowledge to protect their investments in an era of increasingly severe weather events.
As we look to the future, Agro-Invest remains dedicated to revitalizing Jamaica’s agricultural landscape. We are proud to offer new opportunities, including land leases through the Southern Plains Agricultural Development project. These efforts, combined with our focus on modern farming techniques and advanced agro-technology, are central to our mission of empowering farmers and enhancing food security across the island.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND MINING – STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENTS SESSIONS
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining recently orchestrated an extensive series of Stakeholder Engagement Sessions across the entire island as part of the New F.A.C.E. of Food initiative. These sessions were meticulously designed to facilitate substantive dialogues with farmers and investors, aiming to pinpoint challenges and devise a strategic plan for the future. These thirteen sessions stand as a crucial component of the Ministry’s steadfast dedication to tapping into the collective wisdom of Jamaica’s export-focused businesses, farmers, and fisherfolk.
In collaboration, the Agro-Investment Corporation played a supportive role by presenting several investment opportunities. The Corporation’s focus lies in creating agricultural investment opportunities with lucrative outputs, ensuring food security, and ultimately promoting them at local, regional, and international levels.