Government Invests Over $2.7 Billion in Market Upgrades Nationwide

The Guyanese government has approved a $2.7 billion budget for the rehabilitation of major markets, including Bourda, Stabroek, La Penitence, and Mon Repos. The plan includes a two-story upgrade at Bourda Green to accommodate vendors and enhance operations. An additional $800 million has been allocated for a new Culture Market in Palmyra, Berbice, aimed at preserving cultural heritage and boosting tourism. These upgrades are part of a broader $41.9 billion investment into regional development.

Health Sector Secures $143.2 Billion for Modernization and Expansion

Guyana's healthcare sector is set for a massive transformation following the approval of a $143.2 billion budget. The funding will drive infrastructure upgrades, including six new regional hospitals, an expanded Georgetown Public Hospital, and a new pediatric and maternity facility at Ogle. Additionally, nearly $30 billion has been allocated for medical supplies, ensuring better access to essential treatments. The government is also ramping up human resource development, with thousands of healthcare professionals currently in training. Minister Dr. Frank Anthony reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to modernizing the system, expanding screening programs, and strengthening mental health services.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprises (SMEs) Opportunities 

1. Market Stall and Vendor Expansion – Bourda Green & Upgraded Markets

• With $2.7 billion being invested in market rehabilitations, including the two-story Bourda Green project, small businesses have a chance to position themselves in a modernized space with higher foot traffic.

• Opportunities:

  • Upscale food kiosks serving gourmet street food, coffee, or specialty drinks.

  • Eco-friendly retail selling reusable goods, locally-made crafts, or sustainable products.

  • Artisan goods and specialty foods, such as honey, herbal teas, sauces, and packaged snacks.

• Thoughts: Secure a spot early before demand surges. Vendors could also explore partnerships to co-own larger spaces.

2. Digital Public Relations & Media Services – Government PR Contracts

• With the government allocating $800 million for an international PR campaign on the Guyana-Venezuela border dispute, there is a clear demand for content creation, social media campaigns, and media strategy services.

• Opportunities:

  • Content creation agencies specializing in digital advocacy.

  • Social media consulting for government PR efforts.

  • Media monitoring services for tracking sentiment and engagement on global platforms.

• Thoughts: Partnering with government agencies or subcontracting with larger PR firms could be the best approach.

3. Safety & Compliance Training for Mining Sector

• After the tragic mining accident in Region 7, there will be an increased demand for safety training, compliance, and consulting services.

• Opportunities:

  • OSHA-certified mining safety courses for small-scale operators.

  • On-site training and hazard assessments for local miners.

  • Consulting on pit safety regulations to help companies meet legal standards.

• Thoughts: SMEs in safety training can target mining operators, regulators, and equipment suppliers.

Medium Enterprises (MEs) Opportunities 

1. Eco-Friendly Waste Management & Recycling – Landfill & Market Upgrades

• With the government addressing the Haags Bosch landfill issues and investing in market renovations, a recycling and sustainable waste management business could thrive.

• Opportunities:

  • Plastic recycling services for vendors, retailers, and government projects.

  • Waste management solutions for markets, including composting services for food waste.

  • Recycled packaging production, tapping into the food and beverage sector.

• Thoughts: This is an excellent moment to secure government partnerships for waste reduction in public spaces.

2. Construction & Development Contracts – Private Land Development Compliance

• With President Ali warning private developers about land policy compliance, developers will need assistance in meeting government mandates on infrastructure.

• Opportunities:

  • Project management services for real estate developers who must adhere to the government's terms.

  • Drainage, road, and street lighting installation services for private developments.

  • Government compliance consulting for land developers navigating policy changes.

• Thoughts: Form partnerships with contractors and legal consultants to offer full-service compliance solutions.

3. Local Manufacturing of Market Infrastructure & Kiosks

• With multiple market renovations and the new Culture Market in Palmyra, demand will rise for prefabricated stalls, kiosks, and vendor structures.

• Opportunities:

  • Modular kiosk manufacturing (metal, wood, or eco-friendly materials).

  • Customizable food vendor carts for small business operators.

  • Market signage, lighting, and branding solutions for new spaces.

• Thoughts: Bulk supply contracts with municipalities could provide a steady revenue stream.

Large Enterprises (LEs) Opportunities 

1. Fiber Optic & 5G Infrastructure Expansion – “Gigabit Society” Vision

• One Communications’ push for the Caribbean Gigabit Society presents a massive opportunity in fiber optics and 5G deployment.

• Opportunities:

  • Expansion of fiber-optic networks to underserved regions.

  • 5G tower infrastructure projects in collaboration with telecom providers.

  • Cloud data centers and cybersecurity services to support businesses in the digital transition.

• Thoughts: Strategic partnerships with One Communications, local telecom providers, and government agencies could accelerate implementation.

2. High-Value Real Estate & Commercial Development – Government Land Repossession & Housing Scandal

• The housing scandal and land repossession policy signals opportunities for large, well-capitalized firms to legitimately acquire and develop premium real estate.

• Opportunities:

  • Mixed-use developments (residential and commercial spaces) in repossessed areas.

  • Premium retail and commercial centers near growing urban hubs.

  • Luxury eco-lodges and tourism infrastructure, taking advantage of Guyana’s booming tourism sector.

• Thoughts: Expect increased government oversight in real estate transactions—ensure compliance with land use policies.

3. Mining Equipment Leasing & Compliance Services

• Following the fatal mining accident in Region 7, companies will need safer equipment and enhanced compliance measures.

• Opportunities:

  • Heavy equipment leasing for safer, government-approved mining operations.

  • AI-driven safety monitoring and inspection services for mining sites.

  • Corporate risk and compliance consulting for larger mining companies.

• Thoughts: Partnering with the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) could provide long-term contracts.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Today’s developments present clear trends:

• Government infrastructure spending is creating opportunities in construction, compliance, and market upgrades.

• Digitization efforts, including the Gigabit Society initiative, are paving the way for telecom and IT investments.

• Regulatory changes in land use and mining are forcing companies to seek expertise in compliance, safety, and real estate development.

For small enterprises, the best bet is leveraging government contracts, digital services, and training programs.
For medium enterprises, focus on construction, modular manufacturing, and waste management solutions.
For large enterprises, the biggest opportunities lie in fiber infrastructure, high-end real estate, and mining technology leasing.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Executive Personal Assistant Service (For Expats & Business Leaders)

Why It Works:

• Foreign investors and business leaders need local assistance to navigate Guyana’s growing economy.

• Executives don’t have time to handle everyday tasks like setting up utilities, making appointments, or sourcing business contacts.

• With more international businesses entering Guyana, the need for reliable, professional concierge services is rising.

How to Start:

• Offer on-demand assistance for expats, executives, and high-net-worth individuals, including:

  • Business networking & local introductions.

  • Property & rental assistance.

  • Errand-running (document processing, banking, setting up corporate services).

• Market through LinkedIn, real estate agents, and embassies targeting new arrivals and corporate teams.

Potential Monthly Earnings:

• 5 clients paying $50,000 GYD each per month = $250,000 GYD/month.

• Expanding to corporate retainers could push earnings to $500,000+ GYD/month.

💡 Bonus: Offer executive relocation services as an add-on, including rental property sourcing and vehicle leasing.

2. Premium Small-Batch Coffee & Wine Club (Subscription-Based Business)

Why It Works:

• Guyana’s high-income professionals and expats crave high-end coffee and wine but struggle to source premium brands locally.

• A subscription model creates recurring monthly revenue with little effort.

• Corporate offices, hospitality businesses, and high-income households will pay a premium for exclusive, hard-to-find imported products.

How to Start:

• Source rare, high-quality coffee and wine in small batches.

• Offer a subscription model for weekly or monthly deliveries.

• Market to premium restaurants, law firms, oil & gas executives, and hotels.

• Keep inventory low with pre-orders to ensure cash flow before purchasing stock.

Potential Monthly Earnings:

• 50 customers subscribing at $15,000 GYD/month = $750,000 GYD/month.

• Scaling to corporate clients (restaurants & hotels) could double revenue quickly.

💡 Bonus: Offer exclusive tasting events or collaborate with local chefs to create a premium experience.

3. Luxury Car Rental Service (Targeting Expats & Oil Executives)

Why It Works:

• Executives, expatriates, and VIP visitors need high-end transport for meetings, events, and business trips.

• Many prefer renting over purchasing because they are in Guyana short-term.

• Oil and gas executives, embassy personnel, and business travelers will pay top dollar for premium vehicles.

How to Start:

• Lease or finance one high-end vehicle (SUV or executive sedan).

• Rent out the car on a per-day or weekly basis to visiting executives, embassy staff, and business owners.

• Partner with hotels, business hubs, and concierge services for referrals.

• Offer a premium chauffeur option for added income.

Potential Monthly Earnings:

• Renting at $25,000 GYD/day, 15 days a month = $375,000 GYD/month.

• Scaling to two vehicles = $750,000+ GYD/month.

💡 Bonus: Bundle chauffeur services, airport pickups, and corporate event transport to maximize revenue.

Final Thoughts: The Best Side Hustles for 2025

These side hustles require minimal time investment but tap into Guyana’s premium markets where customers are willing to pay top dollar:

1. Executive Personal Assistant Service → High-demand concierge and business networking for expats & investors.

2. Premium Coffee & Wine Club → A subscription-based business for Guyana’s growing high-end market.

3. Luxury Car Rentals → Profitable VIP transportation for oil executives, diplomats, and business leaders.

Each of these ideas aligns with Guyana’s economic expansion, rising expat population, and premium service gaps.