-gov’t urges Guyanese to seize opportunities

Government is pushing for a new wave of entrepreneurship in Guyana as expanding economic opportunities and targeted support systems create what officials say is the ideal environment for citizens to start and grow their own businesses.

With a historic level of state support for entrepreneurship and an economy that is growing like never before, citizens are being urged to become entrepreneurs. 

Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally, says that with everything in their favour, now is the best time for Guyanese to become entrepreneurs. 

During an appearance on the Starting Point podcast, Ali pointed out that there was growth across multiple economic sectors, which has created unprecedented opportunities for individuals to invest and build their own businesses.

Ally also noted that this push is being backed by a series of initiatives under the Irfaan Ali-led PPP/C administration aimed at removing traditional barriers to entry, particularly for young people with business ideas. 

“Now, with the rate that our economy is growing, with all of the opportunities that are being provided in almost every sector, now is a good time for every Guyanese, I believe, to invest in a business, to invest in something that they like,” he encouraged.

The government plans to support entrepreneurs through the upcoming Guyana Development Bank, which will also provide training to help them successfully manage and grow their businesses.

“We will do training and we will do workshop on financial literacy. So it’s not a case where you just walk in, you have an idea, you collect a check and you walk out. Not free money. Not free money. We will help you, we will help you to be an all-around business person. There are also targeted opportunities for youth in agriculture through the Agriculture and Innovation Entrepreneurship Program. Additionally, there is the Small Business Bureau, which administers the Green Tech Fund for Entrepreneurs and the Women Innovation Network, which directly supports women entrepreneurs,” he pointed out.

Ally stressed that these initiatives are designed to create a new generation of business-minded citizens who can fully participate in Guyana’s economic transformation.