Thousands of Youths Engaged in CSO Programme to Bolster Workforce Skills 

The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs' Community Service Officers (CSO) programme has engaged over 2,700 youths across Guyana in 2024, investing $1.3 billion GYD in skills training. Participants, aged 16-35, gain expertise in areas such as tourism, garment construction, and solar installation. Monthly stipends have been increased from $30,000 to $40,000 GYD, reflecting the government’s commitment to building Indigenous human capital and enhancing community development.

US$11.1M Spent on ICT Hubs Across Hinterland Communities 

The Guyanese government has invested US$11.1 million of a US$17 million budget to establish 146 ICT hubs in remote and hinterland communities, providing high-speed internet access. This initiative, part of the Hinterland Connectivity Programme, has trained over 1,100 individuals in ICT support roles. The expanded connectivity enables access to educational programs like the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), facilitating economic growth and bridging digital divides.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprises

1. Digital Services for E-Ticketing and ICT Hubs

   • Opportunity: Develop and offer digital services, such as training on the e-ticketing system or basic IT support for the newly established ICT hubs in hinterland areas. This could include computer literacy classes or maintenance services for ICT infrastructure.

   • Notes: Partner with the government or local community leaders to establish credibility and secure contracts. The training aspect could be especially valuable in hinterland areas where digital skills are in high demand.

2. Fire Safety Equipment Sales and Installation

   • Opportunity: Start a business focused on selling and installing modern fire safety equipment such as fire extinguishing balls, smoke detectors, and fire-resistant materials for homes and businesses.

   • Notes: Leverage the government’s push for stricter fire codes and public awareness campaigns. Partner with contractors or the fire service to position your business as a trusted provider.

3. Community-Based Education Services

   • Opportunity: Establish a small business offering tutoring, homework assistance, and school readiness programs in regions with high dropout rates, like Port Mourant. Use community centers or ICT hubs for sessions.

   • Notes: Collaborate with the Ministry of Education or local NGOs to tap into existing funding for educational improvement programs.

Medium Enterprises

1. Renewable Energy Solutions for Hinterland Communities

   • Opportunity: Provide solar power systems or alternative energy solutions for the 215 communities connected to high-speed internet. These communities will require reliable power for ICT hubs and other tech-based services.

   • Notes: Offer affordable leasing options to make the solutions accessible and focus on installation, training, and maintenance packages.

2. Training and Recruitment for Oil and Gas Workforce

   • Opportunity: Establish a training and recruitment agency for the oil and gas sector, focusing on roles needed for the Gas-to-Energy project and related industries. Include certifications and skills development programs.

   • Notes: Emphasize partnerships with institutions like EXIM Bank and Lindsayca CH4 to ensure alignment with project needs. Offer subsidized training for locals, backed by government incentives.

3. Fire Prevention Consultation Services

   • Opportunity: Provide fire prevention consulting to businesses and developers looking to comply with the government's updated fire safety codes. Offer risk assessments, compliance audits, and tailored safety plans.

   • Notes: Medium enterprises can offer these services to larger businesses or industrial zones, ensuring compliance with stricter penalties and regulations.

Large Enterprises

1. Regional Logistics and Supply Chain Hub

   • Opportunity: Establish a logistics hub to support COPA Airlines’ increased flights and the ICT hubs. This hub could manage the flow of goods, tech equipment, and other necessities between Guyana, Panama, and the wider region.

   • Notes: Highlight the scalability potential, especially with the country's economic growth driven by oil, gas, and infrastructure investments.

2. Public-Private Partnerships in Indigenous Land Development

   • Opportunity: Collaborate with Amerindian communities on sustainable projects such as eco-tourism, agro-processing, or renewable energy on newly titled lands. Large enterprises can provide capital and expertise while leveraging government incentives.

   • Notes: Ensure alignment with cultural preservation goals to maintain community buy-in and long-term partnerships.

3. Technology Integration for E-Ticketing and Fire Safety

   • Opportunity: Develop and implement advanced technologies such as integrated speed monitoring systems or AI-based fire detection systems in line with government safety initiatives.

   • Notes: Work directly with the government and agencies like NDMA to offer large-scale, end-to-end solutions.

Key Takeaways

• Small Enterprises: Focus on localized, service-oriented opportunities that directly address community needs and leverage existing government initiatives.

• Medium Enterprises: Capitalize on gaps in specialized training, compliance consulting, and renewable energy services, particularly in sectors where government or international funding is involved.

• Large Enterprises: Align with major government projects, such as infrastructure development, logistics for economic growth, and large-scale technology solutions for national initiatives.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Digital Compliance Services for Fire Safety and E-Ticketing Systems

• Concept: Offer part-time consulting or compliance assistance to small businesses and households looking to meet the stricter fire safety codes or adapt to the new e-ticketing systems. Services could include basic fire safety inspections, helping individuals register for e-ticketing, or training them on how to use the system.

• Why It Works: With stricter penalties and government initiatives in these areas, there’s an emerging need for affordable, local services. This side hustle requires minimal investment—basic knowledge, a checklist for inspections, or tech savviness—and could operate flexibly around a full-time job.

• Potential Earnings: Charge GYD $5,000–$10,000 per consultation or session.

2. Content Creation for Guyanese Tourism and Infrastructure Growth

• Concept: Build a small content creation side business focused on Guyana’s rapid development. Create TikTok or Instagram videos showcasing new infrastructure projects, eco-tourism destinations, and cultural highlights. Monetize through partnerships with local businesses, tourism agencies, or government campaigns.

• Why It Works: Guyana’s expanding economy and growing global interest create a massive market for content highlighting opportunities in the region. Content creation is low-cost, requires flexible hours, and aligns with global trends in digital entrepreneurship.

• Potential Earnings: Generate income through ad revenue, sponsored content, and partnerships, earning between GYD $50,000–$150,000 monthly with consistent posting.

3. Rideshare or Delivery Service Expansion

• Concept: Use a personal vehicle to provide rideshare services or start a small delivery service for local businesses, particularly in newly connected hinterland communities or urban areas benefiting from increased commerce. Specialize in reliable, quick delivery of packages, groceries, or food.

• Why It Works: The expansion of ICT hubs and infrastructure creates demand for delivery services, especially in underserved regions. This hustle can be tailored to after-work hours or weekends. With apps or basic scheduling, operations can run smoothly with minimal disruption to a full-time job.

• Potential Earnings: GYD $10,000–$20,000 daily during peak periods, with little startup cost if you already own a vehicle or bike.

Why These Ideas Stand Out

• They leverage Guyana’s current economic and infrastructure growth.

• They require low startup capital and can be scaled up over time.

• Each idea aligns with emerging needs and trends, ensuring sustainability and profitability.