Agriculture Budget Reaches Historic High

For the first time, Guyana's agriculture budget surpasses $100 billion, signaling an ambitious plan for growth in the sector. Minister of Finance Dr. Ashni Singh revealed a $104.6 billion allocation to agriculture for 2025, marking a major investment in food security and sustainability. Notable initiatives include mechanization programs in the sugar industry, advancements in climate-smart rice production, and the expansion of coconut cultivation to over 32,000 acres. Additionally, lending to private agriculture ventures increased by 18% in 2024, underlining growing investor confidence in this critical industry. With targeted investments in traditional and non-traditional crops, Guyana aims to strengthen its position as a regional agricultural leader.

Housing Expansion in Bartica with $490M Project

The construction of 40 modern homes in Bartica is set for completion in early 2025, representing a $490 million investment by the government. Designed with two styles—bungalow and V-roof—the homes cater to growing demand in Region Seven. Additionally, $1.1 billion is being invested in infrastructure upgrades for the housing scheme. The initiative underscores the government's commitment to addressing housing needs in hinterland regions while fostering regional development and job creation.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprises (SEs)

1. Organic Coconut and Spice Products

   • Opportunity: With the expansion of coconut cultivation and growth in spice production (e.g., turmeric, ginger, black pepper), small enterprises can create niche products like organic coconut oils, spice blends, or powdered spices targeting local and export markets.

   • Notes: Focus on value-added products and branding them as organic or eco-friendly. Partnerships with government programs or larger farms for raw material supply could reduce input costs.

2. Local Food Processing (Rice and Corn Value-Addition)

   • Opportunity: Utilize the growth in rice and corn production to produce value-added items such as rice-based snacks, cornmeal, or specialty flours.

   • Notes: Leverage government subsidies and training programs to improve food processing skills. Partnering with regional agricultural bodies can provide access to subsidized raw materials.

3. Livestock-Based Small Businesses

   • Opportunity: The rapid growth in poultry, beef, and milk production creates opportunities for small-scale businesses like fresh meat shops, dairy product production (cheese, yogurt), or poultry hatcheries.

   • Notes: Target underserved areas or regions that lack access to fresh, high-quality products. Government-backed breeding and vaccination programs can reduce startup costs.

Medium Enterprises (MEs)

1. Sustainable Agri-Infrastructure Development

   • Opportunity: The $191M pump station and investments in shade houses highlight opportunities in constructing and maintaining agricultural infrastructure like irrigation systems, shade houses, and farm equipment supply.

   • Notes: Offer solutions that integrate sustainable practices (solar-powered irrigation systems, automated greenhouses). Government incentives for mechanization programs can be leveraged for funding.

2. Cultural and Creative Tourism Ventures

   • Opportunity: With investments in cultural markets, museums, and ethnic theatre productions, there’s a strong opportunity to create businesses focused on cultural tourism experiences, including guided tours, workshops, and souvenir production.

   • Notes: Collaborate with the Ministry of Culture to align offerings with planned initiatives. Highlight local history and cuisine for immersive tourist experiences.

3. Renewable Energy and Equipment Supply

   • Opportunity: The $88 billion investment in energy projects, including solar power in Berbice, Essequibo, and Linden, presents opportunities to supply solar panels, storage batteries, or maintenance services.

   • Notes: Target residential and SME customers transitioning to renewable energy solutions. Explore potential government partnerships or tenders for solar installation projects.

Large Enterprises (LEs)

1. Carbon Credits and Sustainability Projects

   • Opportunity: With $237.5M earned from carbon credits and a projection of $41.1B in 2025, large enterprises can invest in sustainability projects like afforestation, carbon sequestration technologies, or eco-tourism ventures.

   • Notes: Collaborate with the government to develop large-scale projects that align with the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, positioning for long-term benefits in the global carbon market.

2. Large-Scale Housing and Urban Development

   • Opportunity: With the $490M Bartica housing project nearing completion and plans for further land acquisition, real estate developers can focus on large-scale housing projects or infrastructure for new housing schemes.

   • Notes: Invest in mixed-use developments with residential, commercial, and recreational spaces to cater to growing middle-class needs. Utilize government incentives to overcome logistical challenges in hinterland regions.

3. Energy Infrastructure Development

   • Opportunity: The Gas-to-Energy project and related energy investments offer opportunities for large enterprises to engage in power plant construction, grid modernization, and energy distribution networks.

   • Notes: Focus on public-private partnerships to secure long-term contracts. The reduction in energy costs from these projects will further bolster industrial growth and make this a strategic entry point.

General Notes Across All Categories

• Leverage Government Incentives: Across all opportunities, identify grants, subsidies, or public-private partnerships offered by the government for alignment with national development goals.

• Sustainability Focus: As environmental impact becomes a global priority, integrating eco-friendly practices can open doors to international markets and funding opportunities.

• Export Potential: With many initiatives aimed at increasing exports (e.g., corn, soya, coconut, and spices), businesses should actively explore regional and international trade agreements to capitalize on these growing sectors.

• Technology Integration: From smart irrigation systems for SEs to AI-driven carbon credit tracking for LEs, embedding technology can enhance efficiency and competitiveness in all ventures.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Agri-Focused Snack Production

Idea: Launch a home-based or small-scale business producing value-added snacks from surplus or seasonal agricultural produce, such as plantain chips, cassava chips, or roasted spice nuts.

• Why it Works: The government is heavily investing in agriculture, increasing production of crops like plantains, cassava, and coconuts. This creates easy access to affordable raw materials.

• Execution: Partner with local farmers or buy directly from markets at wholesale prices. Use simple equipment like slicers, fryers, and sealers to make and package snacks for resale.

• Target Market: Local supermarkets, roadside vendors, and online platforms (e.g., Facebook Marketplace or TikTok ads).

• Scalability: High—move into exports or branded retail products.

2. Renewable Energy Installation and Maintenance

Idea: Offer solar panel installation and maintenance services as a freelance technician or reseller.

• Why it Works: Guyana is investing billions in renewable energy, including solar power projects in regions like Berbice and Essequibo. Many households and small businesses are looking to reduce energy costs.

• Execution: Take short courses in solar panel installation (many online options exist) and start by installing small systems for homes or providing maintenance for businesses. Partner with suppliers to source equipment or act as an independent reseller.

• Target Market: Middle-class homeowners and small business owners looking for affordable solar solutions.

• Scalability: Moderate—expand into full-fledged renewable energy solutions for businesses.

3. Coconut and Spice-Based Handcrafted Products

Idea: Create handcrafted products like coconut oil-based soaps, turmeric scrubs, or ginger-infused teas.

• Why it Works: With the rise in coconut and spice production in Guyana, there is demand for natural, locally sourced wellness and beauty products. Many consumers are seeking affordable, eco-friendly alternatives to imported goods.

• Execution: Learn simple recipes for making soaps, scrubs, and teas. Package products attractively using local branding that highlights their Guyanese origin. Sell at farmer’s markets, pop-ups, or via social media platforms like Instagram.

• Target Market: Health-conscious individuals, tourists, and gift buyers.

• Scalability: High—expand into online sales or partnerships with local retailers.

General Tips for Side Hustlers in Guyana:

1. Leverage Social Media: Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook are great for marketing products and services in a cost-effective manner.

2. Focus on Quality: High-quality, locally-made products can fetch premium prices, especially among tourists or the growing middle class.

3. Stay Consistent: Even small-scale ventures can succeed if operated reliably—word of mouth is still powerful in Guyana.

These side hustles align with the nation’s economic growth, leveraging its natural resources, and meeting emerging consumer needs.