-by David Clarke

Fifteen outstanding young entrepreneurs are one step closer to turning their business ideas into reality after receiving special awards and up to $400,000 each in startup financing through the Small Business Bureau’s Tertiary Entrepreneurship Award programme.

The initiative, led by the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce in partnership with the Small Business Bureau, is aimed at encouraging more young people to pursue entrepreneurship and strengthen Guyana’s growing small business sector.

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues says graduates will also be able to access additional business development support and financing opportunities through the government’s newly established Development Bank as they expand their enterprises.

“This is financing that can really unlock opportunities for you to grow your small business. So I urge you to think long and hard, put your plans together, stay motivated, expect failure, but prepare for success,” she said.

Seventy participants graduated from the programme after completing training in business development and entrepreneurship.