Budget 2025 Targets Solid Waste Management and Infrastructure Expansion

The 2025 national budget will prioritize enhanced solid waste management and an expanded street lighting program, according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali. During a community engagement in Foulis, East Coast Demerara, the President announced plans for 25 new garbage compactor trucks and additional resources to improve garbage collection and disposal facilities. The initiative aims to support National Democratic Councils (NDCs) while improving infrastructure, including road safety measures such as speed bumps. These developments reflect a continued focus on community-level improvements and sustainable urban management.

Elon Musk’s Starlink Expands Reach in Guyana 

Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, Starlink, is close to gaining operational approval in Guyana, further advancing the country’s digital infrastructure. Prime Minister Phillips highlighted discussions with Starlink, emphasizing its potential to enhance connectivity across remote areas and support national technological growth.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprises (SE)

1. Specialized Training Programs for Mining & Construction Workers

   • Opportunity: With the Labour Ministry training 1,500 locals for roles in the Oko West mining project and addressing workplace safety, SEs can offer specialized training in areas like workplace safety, equipment operation, or compliance with Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) standards.

   • Why It Works: Localized and accessible training will meet increasing demand as more workers enter mining and construction sectors.

   • Potential Revenue Streams: Partnerships with government agencies like the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) or private firms involved in resource extraction.

2. Eco-Friendly Products for Power Ship Mitigation

   • Opportunity: The EPA's focus on mitigating pollution from power ships creates room for small businesses to supply eco-friendly solutions like low-emission fuel additives, spill containment kits, or environmental monitoring devices.

   • Why It Works: Aligns with the government’s sustainability goals and presents a low-barrier entry into the environmental services market.

   • Target Market: Government agencies, local businesses in shipping, and international contractors.

3. Local Food Supply Partnerships in Linden

   • Opportunity: With agriculture transforming Linden, small enterprises can focus on producing or distributing local food products to nearby markets, restaurants, and mining companies.

   • Why It Works: Government support in seeds, fertilizers, and tools minimizes input costs, and proximity to Linden's revitalized agricultural initiatives ensures demand.

   • Value Addition: Incorporate organic certifications or farm-to-table marketing strategies.

Medium Enterprises (ME)

1. Solar PV Installation & Training Services

   • Opportunity: As the Labour Ministry partners with international bodies to train women in solar PV technology, MEs can provide installation, maintenance, or training services for solar energy systems across Guyana.

   • Why It Works: Strong government backing for renewable energy projects ensures demand, and international funding opens avenues for collaboration.

   • Long-Term Growth: Position the enterprise as a preferred service provider in both urban and hinterland regions.

2. Tech Solutions for Smart Grid Integration

   • Opportunity: The government's planned $750M investment in modernizing Guyana’s transmission systems and implementing smart grid technology creates opportunities for medium-sized enterprises in software development, smart meter installation, and data analytics.

   • Why It Works: Medium enterprises can be agile in delivering custom solutions while tapping into a growing tech-enabled infrastructure.

   • Potential Partnerships: Collaborate with GPL, government contractors, or technology firms like Starlink.

3. Safety Equipment Supply for High-Risk Workplaces

   • Opportunity: With over 650 high-risk workplaces identified, there’s significant demand for personal protective equipment (PPE), fire safety systems, and compliance kits.

   • Why It Works: MEs can offer tailored safety packages, including consulting on OSH compliance, with minimal competition in this niche.

   • Cross-Sector Potential: Expand offerings to sectors like agriculture, construction, and mining.

Large Enterprises (LE)

1. Satellite Internet Infrastructure with Starlink

   • Opportunity: Partnering with Starlink to roll out satellite internet services across underserved regions in Guyana.

   • Why It Works: With Starlink’s upcoming license approval, large enterprises can serve as distributors, offering installation, customer support, and bundled services for government and private clients.

   • Scalability: Build the foundation for broader tech ventures, including smart city solutions or IoT applications in agriculture and energy.

2. Oil & Gas Support Services for Hammerhead Project

   • Opportunity: Large enterprises can invest in logistics, subsea services, or supply chain management for ExxonMobil’s Hammerhead project, particularly in reservoir development and offshore equipment supply.

   • Why It Works: Exxon’s plan to submit a Field Development Plan in 2025 signals a long-term demand for robust support services.

   • Differentiators: Leverage ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) credentials to stand out.

3. Smart Agriculture Supply Chain for Linden

   • Opportunity: Develop an end-to-end supply chain system, including transportation, warehousing, and digital marketplaces, to support Linden's agricultural growth.

   • Why It Works: With government focus on diversifying the economy, large enterprises can integrate local production into national or regional markets, including exports.

   • Added Value: Use blockchain for traceability, ensuring compliance with international export standards and attracting premium buyers.

Final Notes

• Collaboration Potential: Across all levels, public-private partnerships (PPPs) and collaboration with government-led initiatives are vital.

• Technology Integration: Incorporating digital tools like IoT, blockchain, and data analytics can significantly enhance these opportunities' scalability and profitability.

• Sustainability Focus: Eco-conscious practices and renewable energy solutions will align with national and international priorities, attracting funding and market approval.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Solar Panel Cleaning & Maintenance Services

• Why It’s Valuable: With the government pushing renewable energy initiatives, including solar PV training programs and installations, there will be a growing number of solar panels in homes, businesses, and industrial sites. Dirty or poorly maintained panels reduce energy efficiency, creating demand for affordable cleaning and upkeep services.

• How It Works:

  • Invest in basic cleaning equipment (soft brushes, biodegradable detergents, and a portable water tank).

  • Market services to small businesses, homeowners, and farms using flyers, WhatsApp groups, and Facebook ads.

  • Charge per panel or by system size, creating a predictable income stream.

2. Digital Content Creation for Local Businesses

• Why It’s Valuable: As Guyana’s economy expands, small and medium businesses will seek to establish an online presence but lack the time or skills to create quality digital content. This is an excellent opportunity for people with basic photography, video editing, or copywriting skills.

• How It Works:

  • Offer to create social media posts, manage Facebook pages, or shoot short promotional videos for local restaurants, shops, and services.

  • Bundle services into affordable monthly packages (e.g., 10 posts + 2 videos for GYD $30,000).

  • Leverage platforms like Canva and CapCut for quick, professional-looking outputs.

3. Mobile Agriculture Tools & Supply Rentals

• Why It’s Valuable: Linden's agricultural transformation and Guyana’s broader push toward farming create demand for tools and equipment that small farmers can’t afford outright. Renting equipment like tillers, sprayers, or seed planters is a high-value opportunity.

• How It Works:

  • Purchase small-scale farming tools and offer them on a daily or weekly rental basis.

  • Create partnerships with agricultural cooperatives or regional councils to reach a broad audience.

  • Provide delivery and pickup services to enhance convenience.

Why These Ideas Work

• Flexibility: Each idea requires minimal time investment, making them perfect for individuals with full-time jobs.

• Scalability: These side hustles can grow into full-fledged businesses over time.

• Alignment with Guyana's Growth: The focus on renewable energy, agriculture, and digitalization ensures these ideas are future-proof and aligned with the country’s development trajectory.