FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRESS RELEASE
JULY 3, 2025
FUELING AMBITION, FUNDING TRANSFORMATION: SYGNUS EXPANDS ITS SUPPORT FOR PROJECT STAR
(Kingston, Jamaica) – Real transformation often starts at the grassroots level. With a second consecutive donation to Project STAR, Sygnus Capital is once again stepping up to help power that change. The alternative investment firm’s renewed support will expand access to job readiness training, small business grants, and psychosocial services in underserved communities across Jamaica, reaching even more Jamaicans who are ready to reimagine their futures.
“At Sygnus, we invest in people, in communities, in potential, and in lasting transformation,” said Berisford Grey, President and CEO of Sygnus Capital. “We believe that every Jamaican deserves a fair shot at building a better future, and Project STAR is helping to create those pathways in the communities that need them most. This year’s donation is about more than funding, it’s about standing with individuals and families who are ready to rise, and helping to scale the kinds of initiatives that move people into real, sustainable opportunities. That’s the kind of change we’re proud to be a part of.”
This latest contribution brings Sygnus’ total investment in Project STAR to J$10 million over two years. The funds are helping to deepen the reach of Project STAR’s community-driven programmes, which are designed to unlock new possibilities through skills development, entrepreneurship, and psychosocial support.
Project STAR, a joint initiative between the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), has benefited residents across five communities: Parade Gardens, Rose Gardens, May Pen, Savanna-la-Mar, and Salt Spring. Communities are selected based on rigorous assessments of crime data, vulnerability, and readiness for intervention, ensuring that solutions are both strategic and sustainable.
“We are thrilled to welcome Sygnus as a Signature Donor,” said Keith Duncan, Co-Chair of Project STAR. “The Sygnus Group continues to be a pillar of support to Project STAR. The additional donation of J$5 million is not just financial support; it is a reflection of Sygnus’ deep commitment to creating social and economic change in the lives of so many Jamaicans and their dedication to national development and inclusive growth. We are truly grateful for your generosity and partnership on this journey. This partnership enables us to do more, reach further, and sustain momentum where it matters most.”
To date, over 15,000 residents have been impacted by STAR-led or -supported activities.
In Year 3 alone, which concluded in May 2025, some impact highlights include:
- 61 entrepreneurship-based activities were implemented, benefiting 1,150 residents
- Over 10,000 hours of job readiness training delivered across all five STAR communities
Behind these numbers is the daily work of people like Myshka Allen, Community Project Officer at Project STAR, who helps turn community needs into actionable solutions. “Our work begins with listening,” said Allen. “At Project STAR, we don’t walk into communities with a pre-set plan. We ask the residents what they need and build solutions from there. Companies like Sygnus make that possible because transformation isn’t cheap. It’s not just about hosting events. It’s about reshaping how people see themselves and setting a foundation for the next generation.”
Allen describes a visible shift in community attitudes: people are showing up differently, more confident, more engaged, and more hopeful. Many who once waited for help are now taking ownership of their futures. According to Allen, this new mindset is the true marker of transformation, and it’s a shift enabled by consistent support from partners like Sygnus.
For more information on Project STAR and its impact, visit projectstarja.com.
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About Sygnus
Sygnus is a leading alternative investment firm in the Caribbean and Latin America, dedicated to driving economic development across the region through creative and innovative financing solutions. By offering a range of investment alternatives, including private credit, real estate financing, private equity and impact investing, Sygnus addresses unmet demands, unlocking capital for growing enterprises and playing a pivotal role in regional economic growth. The cutting-edge alternative investment (AI) platform is fueled by transformative strategies designed to accelerate development across the Caribbean and Latin America. This platform is backed by a team of forward-thinking experts who craft tailored solutions for our clients, complemented by dedicated investment banking and wealth management services. Sygnus also provides specialised services in Puerto Rico through Sygnus Capital PR LLC, formerly known as Acrecent Financial. As of December 2023, the company expanded its offerings, reaffirming its commitment to delivering innovative and personalised financing solutions that foster the island’s economic growth.
