$112M Drainage & Irrigation Investment Bolsters Agriculture in Linden

The Government of Guyana has allocated $112 million for critical drainage and irrigation (D&I) projects in Linden, Region 10. The contracts, part of a $224 million initiative for 2024, include cleaning and maintaining vital channels to mitigate flooding and improve agricultural output. Over $1.5 billion has been spent on similar projects in the region over the past four years, demonstrating the government's commitment to infrastructure development that supports local economies and enhances climate resilience.

Horse Racing Gets Formal Structure with New Bill

The Horse Racing Authority Bill, tabled in Parliament by Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports Charles Ramson Jr., aims to regulate Guyana’s horse racing industry. The bill proposes the establishment of a governing board to oversee licensing, term limits, and infractions for jockeys, trainers, and owners. Sports Director Steve Ninvalle hailed this as a milestone for sports tourism and economic development. Often referred to as "the sport of kings," horse racing in Guyana is set to benefit from increased structure, transparency, and growth potential, aligning it with global standards.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprises (SE)

1. Movable Asset-Based Loan Facilitation Services
   Opportunity: With the passing of the Security Interests in Movable Property Bill, small enterprises can offer advisory services to other small businesses to help them secure loans using movable assets as collateral.
   Notes:

   • Focus on underserved rural communities where knowledge about financial legislation might be limited.

   • Bundle services with business planning and financial documentation preparation to create a full-service solution.

2. Community-Based Drainage and Irrigation Maintenance
   Opportunity: The $112 million investment in drainage and irrigation (D&I) in Linden creates opportunities for small contractors to secure subcontracting work for manual cleaning, maintenance, and small-scale earthworks.
   Notes:

   • Collaborate with Community Development Councils (CDCs) to secure contracts.

   • Explore further opportunities in regions investing heavily in agricultural infrastructure.

3. Luxury Condo Support Services
   Opportunity: With Shoreline Estates launching in Enmore, small businesses can offer value-added services like interior decoration, custom furniture making, or concierge support (e.g., personal shopping, local tours).
   Notes:

   • Highlight “local and authentic” branding for competitive differentiation.

   • Partner with the developers to include these services in promotional packages.

Medium Enterprises (ME)

1. Renewable Energy Solutions for GtE Phase Two Expansion
   Opportunity: Medium-sized enterprises can position themselves as providers of renewable energy technologies or supporting services (e.g., maintenance and installation) for Phase Two of the Gas-to-Energy Project at Wales.
   Notes:

   • Focus on lean gas applications, such as industrial fertilization projects or energy-efficient equipment installations.

   • Build capacity for bidding on tenders related to downstream industries using the excess natural gas.

2. Regional Dairy Supply Chain Integration
   Opportunity: Partner with the $20 million Moblissa Dairy Farm project to provide packaging, transportation, or cold-chain logistics for milk and dairy products.
   Notes:

   • Offer value-added services like quality control or branding assistance for processed dairy.

   • Collaborate with DDL to tap into CARICOM export markets.

3. Health Workforce Upskilling
   Opportunity: Develop training programs or private institutions focused on specialized healthcare skills like intensive care, radiology, or cardiac nursing to meet the growing healthcare workforce demand.
   Notes:

   • Align training programs with the healthcare developments in Region Two (e.g., Lima Regional Hospital) for placement opportunities.

   • Seek government incentives for educational enterprises supporting healthcare infrastructure.

Large Enterprises (LE)

1. Commercial Development and Management at CJIA
   Opportunity: Large enterprises can step in to take over or bid for contracts related to the Commercial Centre at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) if Avinash Construction is terminated. This could include creating high-end retail, dining, or entertainment spaces for passengers.
   Notes:

   • Offer expertise in project management and construction efficiency to meet tight deadlines.

   • Include an innovative airport experience (e.g., technology-enabled lounges) to attract travelers.

2. Expansion of Gas-to-Energy-Related Infrastructure
   Opportunity: Develop industrial parks or logistics hubs near the GtE Project to attract businesses that can use affordable electricity and lean gas for manufacturing, processing, or industrial purposes.
   Notes:

   • Advocate for tax incentives or government support for enterprises setting up in the area.

   • Target sectors like fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, or packaging industries.

3. Luxury Property Development in Growing Regions
   Opportunity: Invest in or expand similar upscale residential developments like Shoreline Estates in high-demand areas benefiting from Guyana's economic boom.
   Notes:

   • Leverage the success of Shoreline Estates as a benchmark for future projects.

   • Incorporate sustainable and eco-friendly features to appeal to global investors and expatriates.

Final Thoughts

• These opportunities reflect key trends: infrastructure investment, energy resource utilization, and economic diversification.

• Small enterprises should focus on niche, community-based services. Medium enterprises can scale to meet demand in critical sectors like energy, logistics, and health. Large enterprises should leverage their financial and operational strength to drive transformative projects.

• Collaboration with government initiatives and public-private partnerships will enhance success across all categories.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Rental of Moveable Assets for SMEs

Overview: With the passing of the Security Interests in Moveable Property Bill, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can now use movable assets like equipment, vehicles, and tools as collateral for loans. You can start a side hustle by renting out high-demand movable assets like construction tools, farming equipment, or event-related items (e.g., tents, chairs, sound systems).
Why It Works:

• SMEs will need these assets to qualify for financing or complete new contracts in Guyana's growing sectors.

• Demand is expected to rise as businesses scale operations with easier access to credit.
  Getting Started:

• Invest in versatile, durable assets that can be rented for multiple purposes.

• Partner with local SMEs or advertise in community spaces to grow your client base.

2. Urban Agriculture with Specialty Crops

Overview: Urban agriculture can be a lucrative side hustle, focusing on specialty crops like herbs, microgreens, or exotic vegetables that cater to restaurants, luxury condos (e.g., Shoreline Estates), or export markets. These crops have high profit margins and can be grown in small spaces with minimal overhead costs using hydroponics or vertical farming.
Why It Works:

• High-end dining establishments and upscale housing developments will demand fresh, specialty produce.

• Urban farming aligns with global trends toward sustainability and organic food.
  Getting Started:

• Use backyards, rooftops, or small plots to establish your farm.

• Partner with restaurants, farmers’ markets, and online delivery platforms to sell your produce.

3. Tourism-Ready Property Rentals

Overview: With Guyana’s increasing global exposure due to oil wealth and infrastructure growth, tourism is poised to expand. Transforming unused rooms or properties into Airbnb or short-term rentals can generate steady income. Focus on providing a unique, eco-friendly, or cultural experience that appeals to tourists.
Why It Works:

• Visitors will need accommodations close to key attractions like eco-tourism sites or new commercial hubs.

• Guyana’s tourism potential is largely untapped, making this a high-demand opportunity.
  Getting Started:

• Invest in minor renovations to enhance comfort and appeal.

• Highlight unique features (e.g., cultural heritage, proximity to attractions) in your marketing.

• Use platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com to reach international and local travelers.

Why These Ideas Stand Out

• High Value: These ideas leverage emerging trends, existing gaps, and growing demand in Guyana’s expanding economy.

• Scalable: Each hustle has potential for growth into a full-time business with increased effort or investment.

• Low Initial Commitment: They allow individuals with full-time jobs to manage operations with minimal upfront costs or time commitments.

These ideas align with Guyana’s trajectory of economic growth and can provide sustainable, additional income streams for those looking to capitalize on the country’s transformation.