Jersey is to be marketed as the world’s first ‘testbed country’, a place for technology firms to develop new products and services.
The Sandbox Jersey brand will be rolled out this year, targeting fintech, health and internet of things sectors.
It follows studies commissioned back in 2015 by Digital Jersey to identify opportunities for the island, as part of its growing digital plans. It found Jersey had the potential to be an extremely attractive and unique destination as a digital testbed for both local and international companies.
Announcing proposals to begin marketing Sandbox Jersey this year, Digital Jersey said: “Whilst the term Sandbox has been used by individual regulators, or in software development, no examples can be found of a whole country marketing itself as a Sandbox, which provides Jersey with a USP.”
The plan will be to launch marketing and promotional campaigns this year, with a view to generating at least 90 potential customer leads to target the core message that Jersey can be a one-stop-shop for high-tech product development, in an environment which is safe, controlled, secure and smart.
CEO of Digital Jersey, Tony Moretta, said: “Looking to the future Jersey needs focus, investment and prioritisation to place Digital firmly alongside other main pillars of economic growth such as Finance and Tourism.”
“Working with our partners in industry and government, we will ensure that the digital sector will deliver rewarding career paths and be of great benefit to our island community.”
The announcement comes as the body’s annual review reflected on 2017’s achievements in the digital sector and looked ahead to plans for 2018. These include:
- Ensuring Jersey has the right environment for all digital businesses to set up, including the availability of business and staff licences, supportive Government policies and funding.
- Continuing to develop digital skills and work with other partners to grow career opportunities, including prioritising digital skills development within financial services.
- Supporting the ongoing implementation of the Digital Health and Care Strategy for Jersey.
You can read the full Digital Jersey business plan for 2018 here.
