Guyana’s Forests Drive Sustainable Business Opportunities

Guyana’s forests and natural resources continue to play a critical role in economic development, supporting over 25,000 jobs in industries like construction, crafts, and non-timber forest products such as honey and medicinal plants. A new FAO-backed initiative is scaling up sustainable forest enterprises, improving sawmill safety, and boosting exports. Indigenous-led projects, like the ‘Medicine from Trees’ women's cooperative, are tapping into global demand for organic health products, producing neem-based skincare treatments. Additionally, eco-tourism and conservation programs are expanding, offering new opportunities for entrepreneurs in the green economy.

National Tree Planting Initiative Aims to Greenify Urban Spaces & Combat Climate Change

Guyana is set to plant 50,000 trees across the country as part of a seven-year initiative to enhance urban landscapes and fight climate change. The project, led by the Protected Areas Commission (PAC) with support from the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) and local businesses, kicks off along the Conversation Tree Highway. This initiative will help beautify infrastructure, improve air quality, and boost eco-tourism, aligning with the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030. Businesses involved in landscaping, urban development, and sustainable materials can expect new opportunities as the green economy expands.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprises (SE) – High-Growth, Low-Capital Ventures

1. Mobile Construction Support Services

   • With strict deadlines for the Demerara Harbour Bridge, CJIA expansion, and sea defense projects, subcontractors will need reliable on-site services such as equipment rental, food supply, and transport services for workers.

   • A mobile food truck, portable toilets, or laundry services near construction sites could thrive.

   • Capital Requirement: GYD $2M–$5M

   • Key Partners: Subcontractors, construction firms, logistics companies

2. Retail & Hospitality Expansion Near National Stadium (Palmyra, Berbice)

   • The upcoming National Stadium in Berbice will increase foot traffic and demand for local hospitality services.

   • Opportunities include: Small-scale cafés, souvenir shops, local food vendors, and sports merchandise retailers around the stadium.

   • Capital Requirement: GYD $3M–$7M

   • Key Partners: Local suppliers, event organizers, stadium management

3. Specialized Training for Oil & Gas Maritime Cadets

   • With 20 new cadets entering the Noble Marine Cadet Program, there is an opportunity to offer tutoring services, online certification prep, and seamanship skill enhancement courses.

   • A small training center or online coaching business could capitalize on this growing industry.

   • Capital Requirement: GYD $500K–$2M

   • Key Partners: MATPAL Marine Institute, offshore companies, government training programs

Medium Enterprises (ME) – Scalable Ventures with Moderate Investment

1. Power & Electrical Grid Solutions for Businesses

   • With GPL’s upgrades and the Gas-to-Energy project, businesses need backup power solutions, energy efficiency consulting, and electrical installation services.

   • A mid-sized business could focus on installing solar power systems, energy-efficient appliances, or offering commercial battery backup solutions.

   • Capital Requirement: GYD $10M–$25M

   • Key Partners: GPL, GCCI, manufacturing firms, industrial clients

2. Logistics & Warehousing for Infrastructure Projects

   • With massive infrastructure projects underway, the demand for efficient supply chain management, warehousing, and last-mile delivery services will increase.

   • A logistics business focusing on construction materials, equipment transport, and temporary storage for contractors would be highly profitable.

   • Capital Requirement: GYD $15M–$30M

   • Key Partners: Construction companies, CJIA contractors, Public Works Ministry

3. Sports & Entertainment Business in Berbice

   • The Berbice Stadium’s completion will create a new sports economy.

   • Investing in a mid-sized sports bar, event management company, or premium ticketing service could be a profitable venture.

   • Capital Requirement: GYD $8M–$20M

   • Key Partners: Guyana Sports Federation, corporate sponsors, tourism operators

Large Enterprises (LE) – High-Capital, High-Impact Investments

1. Commercial Real Estate & Business Complex Development near CJIA & Berbice Stadium

   • With major infrastructure growth at CJIA and Palmyra, business complexes, office spaces, and commercial centers will be in demand.

   • A large enterprise could invest in building premium office spaces, retail hubs, and hotel accommodations near these high-traffic zones.

   • Capital Requirement: GYD $100M+

   • Key Partners: Government, major construction firms, international investors

2. Renewable Energy Power Plant Development

   • Guyana’s power grid modernization and the Gas-to-Energy project create a perfect entry point for large renewable energy investments.

   • Investing in solar farms, wind energy solutions, or biogas plants could reduce dependency on fossil fuels and cater to growing energy needs.

   • Capital Requirement: GYD $250M+

   • Key Partners: Government energy agencies, GPL, international energy firms

3. Tech-Enabled Smart Port & Logistics Hub

   • With increased offshore oil & gas activity, infrastructure expansion, and growing trade routes, there is a need for a state-of-the-art logistics hub.

   • A smart port with automated customs clearance, digital tracking systems, and advanced warehousing could position Guyana as a regional logistics leader.

   • Capital Requirement: GYD $500M+

   • Key Partners: Government, Port Authority, shipping companies, oil & gas firms

Conclusion

Today’s developments signal rapid infrastructure expansion, energy transformation, and an evolving business landscape in Guyana.

• Small businesses can tap into the immediate needs of infrastructure projects and workforce training.

• Medium enterprises can scale in logistics, energy solutions, and event-driven industries.

• Large enterprises should consider long-term investments in commercial real estate, renewable energy, and international trade infrastructure.

Next Steps

• Identify key partners & stakeholders to secure collaborations.

• Secure financing or investment for scalable business expansion.

• Leverage government incentives in renewable energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. VIP Travel Concierge for Business Executives & Expats

Opportunity:

• With business travel booming due to oil and infrastructure investments, there is high demand for reliable, high-end travel services in Guyana.

• Busy executives, oil industry professionals, and expats need personalized services such as airport pickups, restaurant bookings, and weekend trips to eco-tourism spots.

• Many high-income professionals do not have time to research and book activities—they are willing to pay extra for convenience.

How to Start:

• Offer a membership-based service where clients pay a monthly or per-trip fee for personalized travel support.

• Build partnerships with premium taxi services, hotels, and private chefs to offer exclusive perks.

• Market services through LinkedIn, WhatsApp Business, and networking at corporate events.

Potential Monthly Earnings:

• GYD $100,000 – $600,000 depending on number of clients.

Why This Works in Guyana:

• Oil professionals and international investors have money but lack time.

• High-value service with low startup costs.

• Can be run part-time through calls, messages, and online bookings.

2. Construction Materials Supplier (Small-Scale)

Opportunity:

• Guyana has billions in construction projects underway including the Demerara Harbour Bridge, CJIA expansion, sea defense projects, and Berbice Stadium.

• Small contractors and workers need fast, reliable access to materials like cement, nails, protective gear, and small tools—often in small quantities.

• Many contractors struggle with supply shortages and lack the time to visit hardware stores.

How to Start:

• Buy small quantities of high-demand materials in bulk from hardware stores or wholesalers and resell to small contractors at construction sites.

• Use a WhatsApp ordering system where contractors text orders for quick delivery.

• Offer early morning and after-hours deliveries when regular hardware stores are closed.

Potential Monthly Earnings:

• GYD $150,000 – $800,000, depending on volume.

Why This Works in Guyana:

• Massive infrastructure growth = high demand.

• Small contractors need fast access to materials.

• Low overhead – you don’t need a storefront, just a supplier and transport.

3. Mobile Business Services for Expats & High-Income Locals

Opportunity:

• Expats and high-income professionals in oil, government, and corporate sectors often need help with errands, document processing, and premium home services.

• Many do not have time to visit government offices or wait in long lines—and will gladly pay extra for someone to handle tasks for them.

• Services can include:

  • Passport, visa, and work permit applications.

  • Banking, bill payments, and official document pickups.

  • Grocery shopping & private chef meal prep (for busy professionals).

How to Start:

• Advertise services via LinkedIn, WhatsApp Business, and expat Facebook groups.

• Offer flat-rate pricing per service with a monthly subscription option for frequent users.

• Partner with a lawyer or notary to add premium document services.

Potential Monthly Earnings:

• GYD $200,000 – $1M, depending on clientele.

Why This Works in Guyana:

• Oil-driven economic growth = more high-income workers.

• Expats & executives need personal assistance.

• Minimal startup costs – just a strong network and good organization skills.

Final Thoughts: Why These Side Hustles Work Now

1. They align with Guyana’s fast-growing economy and demand for premium services.

2. They require little to no startup capital—just smart networking and execution.

3. They allow flexibility, making them ideal for people with full-time jobs.