Skills Gap Creates Opportunity for Workforce Training Providers

With more than 100 graduates from the Board of Industrial Training’s (BIT) technical programs entering the job market, Guyana’s private sector remains undersupplied with skilled labor. Finance Minister Singh said demand is outstripping supply in trades like refrigeration, welding, and motor vehicle repair. For vocational training providers and recruiters, the gap signals market opportunity.

Guyana Eyes Manufacturing Boom with Cheaper Energy

Guyana is poised to become a regional manufacturing hub once its flagship Gas-to-Energy (GtE) project comes online, slashing electricity costs by up to 50%. GO-Invest CEO Dr. Peter Ramsaroop told investors the move will drive competitive manufacturing across sectors, with the country ready to scale value-added exports such as processed coconut water. The government is also calling for tech-savvy private sector partnerships, especially in digital infrastructure and cybersecurity.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprise Opportunities

1. Technical Training & Certification Services (Mobile or Community-Based)

Why it works: The BIT graduation and the continued shortage of skilled workers in refrigeration, electrical work, welding, and auto servicing reveal a structural labour gap. There is immediate opportunity to run micro training centers or mobile certification programs in underserved regions, partnering with existing TVET programs.

Execution: Partner with BIT, UG campuses, or private sector firms to provide Level 1 and 2 certification for in-demand trades. Offer weekend and evening classes targeting young adults and school leavers. Add placement services to monetize employer connections.

2. Minibus and E-Bike Compliance Services

Why it works: Police and traffic authorities are pushing for public participation in reporting traffic violations, but enforcement systems are weak. A small business could offer e-ticketing tools, app-based report channels, or helmet and safety gear vending points.

Execution: Build a low-cost tech platform or WhatsApp hotline for citizen reporting, backed by police cooperation. Supplement with a side business selling DOT-certified helmets, reflective gear, and e-bike retrofit kits at major transportation nodes.

3. Event-Based Trade Mission Support & Hospitality Services

Why it works: With a surge in business delegations (e.g., Jamaican, T&T, Surinamese missions), there’s a growing need for concierge-style local services that manage logistics, translation, sourcing, and cultural orientation.

Execution: Offer fixed-price packages for delegations: airport transfers, site visits, translation, local guides, curated B2B meetups. Target Chambers of Commerce and trade associations as partners. Scale with virtual pre-trip briefings.

Medium Enterprise Opportunities

1. Refined Fuel Distribution & Logistics

Why it works: Jamaica currently exports over $50 million USD in refined fuel to Guyana. In the absence of a local refinery, regional firms can fill the gap with midstream fuel distribution, especially ahead of Curlew’s terminal launch.

Execution: Set up a local depot or brokerage operation to act as a middleman between US refineries (Curlew) and inland distributors. Partner with haulage firms and retail fuel stations. Develop a last-mile refueling system for commercial operators and heavy equipment.

2. Energy-Efficient HVAC Manufacturing or Assembly

Why it works: T&T’s Maraj Air Conditioning is launching operations in Guyana, but local assembly or component production remains open. There’s space for mid-sized firms to produce components (ducting, casing, solar AC tech) locally.

Execution: Use partnerships with foreign HVAC brands to import parts and assemble locally in East Bank or Berbice industrial zones. Add a technical training arm to service systems post-installation. Use energy-efficiency incentives for marketing.

3. Manufacturing of Regional Export Products (Beverages, Coconut Water, Processed Goods)

Why it works: Ramsaroop’s remarks on Malaysian coconut water dominating Caribbean cruise ships underline a massive product gap. With lower energy costs imminent, Guyanese manufacturing becomes more competitive.

Execution: Set up a co-packing or private label facility in Region 4 or Region 6. Begin with bottled coconut water, sorrel, or pepper sauces. Use GtE cost reductions to improve margins and leverage GO-Invest’s incentives for export readiness.

Large Enterprise Opportunities

1. Oil Refining and Fuel Terminal Infrastructure

Why it works: Guyana remains dependent on external refineries (Jamaica, US) and is actively seeking private investment to establish a local facility. There is room for one or more refineries under PPP or fully private ownership.

Execution: Partner with the Government to submit refined EPC bids or invest directly in modular refinery setups (30k–60k bpd). Structure the project to also serve regional CARICOM needs and integrate with new Curlew fuel terminal logistics.

2. Digital Infrastructure & Cybersecurity Integration

Why it works: The Government has signaled that local businesses are far behind on cybersecurity and digitization. With UK and US partnerships deepening, there’s political appetite and donor interest in digital transformation.

Execution: Launch a Guyana-focused cybersecurity and cloud solutions firm or regional data center. Build public-private partnerships with ministries and major private sector firms. Offer training, systems audits, and managed services.

3. Special Economic Zone (SEZ) or Logistics Park at Long Island, Corentyne Bridge Landing

Why it works: The Corentyne River Bridge includes plans for a commercial hub with tourism, agriculture, and trade. Although delayed, this project will anchor a future regional trade zone with deep Chinese involvement and IMF sensitivity.

Execution: Begin feasibility studies and land acquisition planning now. Form a JV with Surinamese firms or Chinese contractors. Target warehousing, bonded zones, modular hotel facilities, or river port development once financing is resolved.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Mobile Skills Bootcamp Instructor

What it is: Host evening or weekend group workshops teaching high‑demand trades—such as refrigeration installation, basic electrical repairs, motor vehicle servicing, or welding.

Why it works: BIT graduates and employers report a shortage of skilled technicians. Working professionals with trade experience can offer compact, entry-level certifications or prep classes for BIT exams, delivering training at community centres or your garage.

How to start:

• Choose one technical skill and tailor a 4–6 week curriculum.

• Promote through local social media groups, churches, and vocational schools.

• Charge per session or module (e.g., GYD $2,500–5,000 per participant).

• Offer add-on services like job placement referrals or parts guidance.

2. E-Bike Safety Compliance & Gear Micro‑Store

What it is: Operate a pop‑up kiosk or online micro‑store offering certified helmets, locks, reflective vests, and safety accessories targeted at e‑bike users and mini‑bus drivers.

Why it works: With increasing enforcement of e‑bike regulations and public safety campaigns, commuters and operators need compliant gear—yet it’s scarce and fragmented.

How to start:

• Source DOT-standard helmets and safety products.

• Set up a stall at major transport nodes or online marketplaces like Facebook or WhatsApp.

• Provide quick installation services and mobile delivery.

• Add value with safety advice or mini e‑bike checks.

3. Business Mission Concierge & Tour Facilitator

What it is: Provide bespoke services to visiting business delegates—coordinating local supplier tours, translation, venue bookings, or product sourcing events.

Why it works: Trade missions from Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, and Suriname are frequent. Visiting executives need local help—logistics, introductions, cultural guidance.

How to start:

• Build a network of local suppliers, event venues, translators, and transport providers.

• Offer packaged services: 1‑day sourcing tour, factory visits, and supplier meet‑and‑greets for USD $200–500 per delegation.

• Market directly to trade associations or via Chambers of Commerce.

Each of these side hustles requires minimal upfront capital and can be scaled based on time—from a few hours on weekends to full part‑time operations. They tap directly into today’s economic currents—skills gaps, regulatory shifts, and regional business flows—while offering solid returns and growth potential.