Government Secures G$57.5B to Supercharge Infrastructure

The Guyanese government has passed a G$57.5 billion supplementary budget to fast-track national development. Major allocations include G$28.8 billion for expanding the electricity grid—aimed at reducing energy costs by 50%—and G$12 billion to push forward housing infrastructure. G$3 billion was earmarked for the ongoing G$100,000 cash grant initiative, with over 617,000 citizens already benefitting. Additional funds target hinterland road development and farm-to-market access, supporting both industrial expansion and agriculture.

Business Takeaway: Contractors, infrastructure suppliers, and renewable energy firms have a green light to explore serious opportunities.

Govt Invests GYD $221M in Hinterland Workforce Upskilling

Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton announced that 1,300 Indigenous residents across 58 communities will benefit from 97 new training programs this year. Programs cover agro-processing, ICT, electrical work, and heavy-duty equipment operation. The initiative aims to create locally-driven economic activity and reduce reliance on imported skilled labor.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Top 3 Small Enterprise Opportunities

1. Farm-to-Market Logistics & Aggregation Services
With G$1.4B allocated for farm-to-market roads and a national emphasis on agricultural expansion, especially in Region Two, there is strong demand for micro-logistics services to help small farmers move produce to buyers and processing centers.
Notes: Focus on short-haul, refrigerated transport for perishables or consolidation points in underserved villages.

2. Rural Water Filter Sales & Maintenance
The surge in clean water access, especially in Essequibo, opens a niche for household and commercial-grade water filtration devices that further improve quality. Maintenance contracts for new plant-linked homes can be developed.
Notes: Position as a value-add for residents now receiving piped water who seek WHO-level quality.

3. Snack/Food Stalls at Cricket Events
With ticket prices accessible to the masses and an influx of global cricket fans expected at the GSL, small food vendors have the chance to secure stadium or surrounding pop-up stalls to serve local cuisine and drinks.
Notes: Focus on fast, portable, crowd-friendly items like patties, wraps, and fresh juice.

Top 3 Medium Enterprise Opportunities

1. Cage Aquaculture & Feed Production in Region Two
The government is rolling out 50 marine cages in Region Two to boost fish production. There’s a gap for SMEs to supply quality fish feed, monitoring tools, and consulting services to manage yields.
Notes: Could scale quickly if bundled with training programs or tech-based monitoring apps.

2. Housing Construction & Prefab Kit Supply
With G$12B allocated for new housing and expanding homeownership in Essequibo, there’s space for medium-sized contractors and prefab housing suppliers to provide low-to-mid income housing solutions quickly.
Notes: Look at modular home options that align with public procurement specs and offer scalability.

3. Agribusiness Processing & Storage Facilities
President Ali emphasized storage facility investments and high-value crop diversification in Region Two. A medium enterprise can build and operate cold storage, rice milling, or cassava processing facilities.
Notes: Opportunities exist to co-locate with planned government transport upgrades and reduce post-harvest losses.

Top 3 Large Enterprise Opportunities

1. Renewable & Distributed Energy Infrastructure
The G$28.8B grid upgrade and 300MW gas power plant project present long-term space for IPPs (Independent Power Producers), solar farm developers, and energy storage system providers to complement national energy resilience.
Notes: Can align with solar panel rollouts in off-grid hinterland areas; leverage public-private partnership structures.

2. Industrial-Scale Water Infrastructure Services
The G$40B water infrastructure programme is ramping up with new plant builds, transmission mains, and quality upgrades. Major engineering firms with experience in water treatment and civil works should bid for contracts.
Notes: International-standard water projects will also create demand for subcontractors in telecoms, automation, and civil consulting.

3. Sports & Entertainment Infrastructure Management (GSL & Beyond)
The GSL’s expansion and multi-national franchise model pave the way for large hospitality, media, and entertainment firms to manage fan zones, merchandising, and VIP experiences.
Notes: Position yourself for longer-term involvement as Guyana becomes a regional sports destination; this could extend to hotel, travel, and broadcast rights partnerships.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Stadium Vendor Reseller for GSL Events

Why: With the Global Super League (GSL) bringing thousands of fans and international attention, there's a prime opportunity to buy and resell snacks, water, local souvenirs, or branded fan items outside the stadium or through pop-up stands.
Execution: Source stock in bulk and partner with a friend or family member to sell at games, especially during Guyana Amazon Warriors matches and the final. Focus on items with good margins and quick turnover (e.g. ice-cold water, GSL-themed flags, wristbands, etc.).
Upside: High foot traffic + low competition = strong potential for cash income on match days.

2. Rural Content Creator or Field Marketing Agent

Why: With multiple ministries and development projects now happening in hinterland and coastal communities (water plants, agriculture expansion, housing), there's a need for local visual storytellers and grassroots marketing.
Execution: Use your phone to create simple videos or photo stories of government projects, farming success, or community upgrades. Offer your services to businesses, NGOs, or even government agencies who need on-the-ground media.
Upside: Very low cost to start; high demand from government PR departments and private sector actors who don’t have coverage outside of Georgetown.

3. Clean Water Solutions Agent (Filtration & Hygiene Kits)

Why: With 87% of the Essequibo Coast now having access to treated water and further rollouts planned, households and small businesses will look to improve water quality even further.
Execution: Become a micro-distributor of affordable water filters, testing kits, or even hygiene starter packs sourced wholesale. Start with friends and family, and expand through churches, community meetings, and social media.
Upside: You’re riding the wave of infrastructure investment without needing to build anything yourself. Products are practical, necessary, and easy to demonstrate.