Thousands of Jamaicans operating side-hustle businesses and small enterprises could soon gain easier access to financing through a new $1-billion Employees' Side-Hustle and Entrepreneur Micro Loan Revolving Fund Programme launched by First Union Financial Company Limited.

The initiative, unveiled by the licensed microfinance institution, is aimed at helping Jamaicans start, expand and strengthen income-generating ventures while promoting financial independence, business ownership and long-term economic growth.

According to Jonalisa Brooks, group general manager at First Union Financial, the programme was developed in response to the growing number of Jamaicans pursuing entrepreneurial ventures alongside full-time employment.