Let’s cut to it—your business name is the handshake, the headline, the hook. In Jamaica, it’s also a legal hurdle. Before you print that logo or lock in your domain, there’s a bit of groundwork to get right.
Don’t Just Fall in Love with a Name. Vet It.
That catchy name you’ve brainstormed at 2AM? Someone else may already be using it. Or worse—it might be too close to theirs. The Companies Office of Jamaica (COJ) keeps a registry for a reason. If it’s not available or causes confusion, it’s not yours to use. Period.
“Official-Looking” Is a Red Flag
Adding terms like “Authority,” “Board,” or “Bank” might sound powerful. But unless you’re licensed by the relevant governing body, it’s a fast track to rejection. Jamaica doesn’t play when it comes to names that imply regulation or state affiliation. Be original, not misleading.
Trademarks Matter—Even If You’re Small
Trademark infringement isn’t just a corporate problem. Startups get sued too. A simple name check on the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO) site can save you a cease-and-desist letter down the line. Better safe than sued.
Pivoting Later? You Still Need Approval
If you decide to rebrand, it’s not just a matter of updating your Instagram bio. You’ll need shareholder sign-off, COJ approval, and formal notice in the Gazette and a national newspaper. It’s a process—and one you’ll want to get right the first time.
Wrap-Up:
Picking your business name isn’t just branding—it’s strategy, legality, and future-proofing. Do the checks. Think long-term. Because in Jamaica’s business landscape, your name is your first impression—and your first defense.
