Twenty small businesses were recognised for their excellence across various sectors, while 12 businesses received Green Tech Fund Grants, each valued at $1 million, during the annual Small Business Awards Ceremony held at the Pegasus Hotel on Friday evening.
In her address, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Hon. Oneidge Walrond, applauded the accomplishments of small business owners and assured the government’s commitment to fostering growth and innovation within the sector.
Minister Walrond underscored the vital role small businesses play in shaping Guyana’s economy, describing them as the ‘backbone of the nation’. Reflecting on the recent GuyExpo, which featured over 300 exhibitors—many of whom are Small Business Bureau clients—she lauded the exceptional quality, creativity, and innovation demonstrated by local entrepreneurs.
“The noticeable improvements in packaging, branding, and the sheer ingenuity on display were a testament to the dedication of our small business owners,” she stated.
While commending their innovation and excellence, Minister Walrond noted that the Green Tech Fund Grant ideas align with the government’s vision of promoting sustainability and green innovation.
“These grants represent more than just financial support; they reflect the potential of your innovative ideas to contribute to a greener Guyana. I look forward to seeing the impactful results of your projects,” the Minister remarked.
She shared transformative successes of the government, including the Business Incubators in Lethem and Belvedere, which have enabled agro-processors to transform raw agricultural products into export-ready goods.
Over the past four years, the Small Business Bureau has disbursed over $1 billion in grants to more than 4,000 businesses and facilitated nearly $1 billion in loans through partnerships with financial institutions.
“These initiatives are not handouts but strategic investments in Guyana’s future, helping startups gain traction, boosting confidence in our economy, and creating employment opportunities,” she explained.
The Minister emphasised the government’s expanded Financial Literacy Training for Small Businesses, announced by President Dr. Ali at GuyExpo 2024. This initiative equips entrepreneurs with essential skills to manage resources, make data-driven decisions, and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements—critical for accessing government procurement opportunities.
“Our vision is for more Guyanese to establish sustainable businesses and evolve beyond grants to access larger financial resources, driving expansion and economic impact,” she stated.
The awardees included Ameer Rahim and Budwatty Ramnarine in the Sustainable Agriculture Small Business category, Janet Patterson, who received the Creative Craftsmanship Small Business Award, and Lisa Birkett, honoured in the Tranquil Glow Small Business category.
