Mayor’s business plan envisions Fajardo as regional economic hub

By The Star Staff

Fajardo Mayor José Aníbal “Joey” Meléndez Méndez outlined an ambitious plan to transform the municipality’s business ecosystem, emphasizing its potential as an economic hub for the eastern region, during a presentation earlier this week to Economic Development and Commerce (DDEC by its acronym in Spanish) Secretary Sebastián Negrón Reichard.

“In Fajardo, we are not improvising; we are moving forward with precise proposals to transform our business ecosystem,” the mayor said. “Our goal is to turn the municipality into a model of modern, agile, and competitive economic development -- not only for the eastern region but for all of Puerto Rico. Each initiative we present has a purpose: to eliminate obstacles, attract investment, and create more opportunities for our entrepreneurs and business owners.”

During Monday’s meeting, Meléndez Méndez outlined strategic proposals that include the creation of entrepreneurship academies, business incubation and acceleration programs, seed capital funds and tax incentives for new entrepreneurs. He also highlighted the importance of promoting emerging sectors such as tourism, agribusiness and the creative economy. Additionally, he proposed establishing business innovation centers and municipal offices to support merchants, which would integrate digital platforms to simplify the processes for permits, licenses and essential services for business growth.

“Today, more than ever, Fajardo is ready to receive investment and generate growth,” the mayor emphasized. “We are committed to the future. Our goal is to attract talent, capital, and projects that will benefit both our city and the eastern region of Puerto Rico.”

Meléndez Méndez reiterated that the proposals aim for concrete results, including job creation, the strengthening of local businesses and the attraction of new investments.

“Economic development doesn’t happen overnight,” he said. “It requires strategic direction, partnerships, and the will to act. In Fajardo, we are prepared to lead this transformation with the support of the DDEC. Fajardo is open for business.”