T&T’s Shift Toward Guyana Signals Investment Opportunity

Trinidad’s energy policy change could mean new investments in cross-border gas infrastructure and joint energy projects in Guyana. Entrepreneurs and mid-sized firms in logistics, construction, marine services, and environmental consulting should prepare for regional project tenders and partnership opportunities.

New Amsterdam Targets Urban Upgrades with Increased Subvention

New Amsterdam’s Town Council is planning to upgrade drainage systems and install 210 streetlights following a government subvention increase from GY$18M to GY$50M. Proposals include interlot drains, road repairs, and lighting installations across all seven town constituencies. The move signals a scaling up of local infrastructure development under Guyana’s expanding municipal investment program.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Top 3 Business Opportunities for Small Enterprises

1. Coconut-Based Value-Added Products

• Opportunity: The coconut industry is expanding, and Guyana is looking to develop value-added products.

• Small Business Fit: Entrepreneurs can start with products like virgin coconut oil, coconut flour, or dried coconut snacks.

• Notes: Entry-level equipment is relatively affordable; products cater to both local and export markets. High potential for sales through local supermarkets or online.

2. Micro Agro-Processing Services

• Opportunity: GBTI’s new financing program offers loans to SMEs, and there’s growing support for agro-industrial businesses.

• Small Business Fit: Start a micro-factory offering services like bottling, labeling, or dehydration for small farmers/producers.

• Notes: Position as a B2B service provider to farmers who want to move up the value chain without building their own facility.

3. Farm Logistics & Delivery Services

• Opportunity: As demand for processed and exportable agricultural products rises, so does the need for efficient transport from farm to facility.

• Small Business Fit: Launch a farm-to-factory delivery service using motorcycles or small trucks.

• Notes: GBTI’s financing support could help acquire basic equipment; recurring revenue model if you secure contracts with processors.

Top 3 Business Opportunities for Medium Enterprises

1. Regional Coconut Processing Facility

• Opportunity: The government aims to strengthen coconut value chains.

• Medium Business Fit: Invest in a semi-automated facility producing coconut oil, cream, and coir fiber.

• Notes: Strong local and regional demand; GBTI financing can support machinery and working capital.

2. SME Loan Aggregator Platform

• Opportunity: IDB Invest’s $16 million injection into SME lending via GBTI creates a ripe environment for financial support services.

• Medium Business Fit: Build a platform or advisory service that helps SMEs prepare loan applications, business plans, and financial projections.

• Notes: Could partner directly with GBTI or remain independent. High demand among small businesses with low financial literacy.

3. Rural Cooperative Cold Storage Business

• Opportunity: Agro-producers need better storage to reduce spoilage and increase market value.

• Medium Business Fit: Build and operate refrigerated storage facilities that rent space to farmers or co-ops.

• Notes: Link services with coconut, pineapple, and pepper producers; revenue via subscription or pay-per-use.

Top 3 Business Opportunities for Large Enterprises

1. Integrated Agro-Industrial Park

• Opportunity: The national push for agro-processing and coconut product development supports vertically integrated industrial hubs.

• Large Business Fit: Build an industrial park focused on agro-processing (coconut oil, pepper sauces, packaged fruits) with shared services.

• Notes: Public-private partnership potential; aligns with IDB/GBTI’s focus on sustainable enterprise and economic diversification.

2. Export-Oriented Coconut Products Brand

• Opportunity: Guyana’s positioning for coconut product export creates room for a global-facing brand.

• Large Business Fit: Build a full-scale coconut products company targeting U.S., Canadian, and Caribbean markets.

• Notes: High-margin items include beauty products, health supplements, and specialty food items. Use traceability and “Guyanese origin” branding as a competitive edge.

3. SME Growth Fund or Accelerator

• Opportunity: With $16M being made available to GBTI to lend to SMEs, there’s a clear financing gap and mentorship need.

• Large Business Fit: Create a private equity or venture debt fund focused on scaling SMEs in agro-processing and manufacturing.

• Notes: Co-invest with local banks or development agencies. Potential to create a long-term pipeline of investible businesses while generating returns.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Coconut-Based Skincare Products

Opportunity: The government's emphasis on value-added coconut products presents an avenue for creating natural skincare items such as soaps, lotions, and oils.

Execution:

• Start by producing small batches of coconut oil-based products.

• Utilize local markets and online platforms for sales.

• Consider partnerships with local spas or beauty salons for product placement.

Why It Works: There's a growing demand for natural and locally-sourced skincare products. Starting small allows for manageable investment and scalability.

2. Agro-Processing Equipment Leasing

Opportunity: With the rise in agro-processing activities, there's a need for equipment like dehydrators, grinders, and mixers.

Execution:

• Invest in versatile agro-processing equipment.

• Offer rental services to small-scale producers who can't afford to purchase equipment outright.

• Provide training sessions on equipment usage to add value.

Why It Works: Many small producers need access to equipment but lack the capital for purchase. Leasing provides them with necessary tools while generating income for the lessor.

3. Coconut Waste Composting Services

Opportunity: The increase in coconut production leads to more waste, which can be converted into compost for agricultural use.

Execution:

• Collect coconut husks and shells from processing units.

• Set up a composting system to convert waste into organic fertilizer.

• Sell the compost to local farmers and gardeners.

Why It Works: This addresses waste management while providing a sustainable product for agriculture, aligning with environmental and economic goals.