New $12M GNBS Lab to Boost Local Exports

The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) has commissioned a $12 million state-of-the-art laboratory and administrative facility to enhance certification, calibration, and testing services. Supported by an Inter-American Development Bank loan, the facility aims to position Guyanese products competitively on international markets. President Dr. Irfaan Ali emphasized the lab’s role in economic transformation, enabling local businesses to meet global standards and attract foreign markets.

Second Power Ship to Add 60 MW to National Grid

Guyana is set to enhance its power infrastructure with the connection of a second power ship to the national grid before Christmas. The project, spearheaded by Guyana Power and Light (GPL) and Kalpataru Projects International, will initially contribute 60 MW, later scaling to 75 MW. Modernized infrastructure, including a new substation and transmission line, is being implemented to ensure seamless integration and improved energy reliability.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprises (SE)

1. Public Sector-Focused Upskilling and Certification Services

   • Opportunity: Develop a training or consultancy business aimed at helping public servants access the new qualification allowances (e.g., ACCA certifications, Master’s and Doctoral degrees).

   • Notes: Create affordable, accessible courses or partner with local academic institutions for targeted professional development. A mobile app for tracking certifications and career development could add value.

2. Papa John’s Complementary Services

   • Opportunity: Establish businesses that complement the new Papa John’s location, such as small dessert shops, delivery logistics for Papa John’s, or evening entertainment spots near Vlissengen Road.

   • Notes: Networking with RBH could help secure strategic partnerships. Focus on offering products or services that enhance customer experiences.

3. Eco-Friendly Construction Supplies for GNBS Projects

   • Opportunity: Supply sustainable and eco-friendly materials for additional infrastructure projects following GNBS’s new lab launch.

   • Notes: Develop a niche in green certifications and materials to appeal to businesses aiming to align with GNBS’s emphasis on standards and innovation.

Medium Enterprises (ME)

1. Renewable Energy Solutions for Power Infrastructure

   • Opportunity: Offer solar, wind, or hybrid energy solutions to complement Guyana’s expanding energy grid, such as powering substations or rural areas not covered by the national grid.

   • Notes: Partnering with GPL and Kalpataru Projects International could ensure alignment with future grid expansion plans.

2. Regional Supply Chain Development for Papa John’s

   • Opportunity: Position as a regional supplier of fresh ingredients or packaging for Papa John’s operations in Guyana, Suriname, and Curacao.

   • Notes: RBH’s focus on quality means suppliers must meet high standards. Invest in certifications and logistics infrastructure to build trust and reliability.

3. Digital Tools for Unionized Workforce Management

   • Opportunity: Develop software or apps to help public and private sector unions manage multi-year agreements, payroll, and employee benefits.

   • Notes: Feature modules for managing qualification allowances, travel benefits, and duty-free concessions. Targeting unions could create a recurring revenue model.

Large Enterprises (LE)

1. Local Product Certification Hub for Export

   • Opportunity: Establish large-scale operations to certify and package local goods (e.g., agriculture, gold jewelry, construction materials) for international markets using the GNBS’s upgraded standards.

   • Notes: Develop partnerships with GNBS to streamline processes. Focus on scaling the export readiness of local manufacturers.

2. Power Infrastructure Development

   • Opportunity: Invest in large-scale construction and maintenance of power generation and transmission facilities, including modern substations and grid enhancements.

   • Notes: Collaborate with international players like Kalpataru Projects and focus on integrating cutting-edge technologies for efficiency.

3. Youth Development and Sports Sponsorship Programs

   • Opportunity: Sponsor or manage large-scale youth engagement programs, leveraging platforms like the GNBS's new initiatives and CNOOC’s regional sports programs to build brand equity.

   • Notes: Focus on long-term partnerships with educational institutions and regional governments to establish programs that foster talent and create goodwill.

General Thoughts

• Emerging Market: Guyana’s rapid economic expansion, driven by oil and gas, creates demand for supportive infrastructure across education, energy, and certification. Businesses targeting these needs can position themselves for growth.

• Collaborative Opportunities: Align with government initiatives, international firms, and local unions to ensure relevance and scalability.

• Focus on Standards: GNBS’s new facility signals a push for international-quality certifications—meeting or exceeding these standards will provide a competitive edge for all ventures.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Specialized Public Sector Tutoring and Career Coaching

• What It Is: Provide part-time tutoring or coaching services to public servants looking to upgrade their qualifications and earn government-provided allowances (e.g., ACCA certifications, Master’s degrees).

• Why It Works: With the government incentivizing public servants to obtain advanced qualifications, there’s a ready market for accessible and affordable educational support.

• How to Start: Partner with academic institutions or offer virtual tutoring using popular platforms. Develop targeted study guides for public sector exams and qualifications.

• Potential Revenue: Charge GYD $5,000–$10,000 per session or create bundled packages for steady income.

2. Mobile Pizza Add-Ons for Papa John’s Customers

• What It Is: Create a mobile or pop-up food stall offering unique, affordable sides or desserts (e.g., locally inspired garlic knots, tropical dessert cups) outside or near the new Papa John’s location.

• Why It Works: Papa John’s launch will attract significant foot traffic, and complementary offerings create an easy upsell opportunity.

• How to Start: Invest in a small cart or mobile setup. Use local ingredients to keep costs low and ensure fast preparation for walk-by customers.

• Potential Revenue: Generate GYD $50,000–$100,000 per day during peak hours with minimal overhead.

3. Certification Prep and Document Services

• What It Is: Offer part-time services to help individuals and small businesses meet GNBS standards, such as documentation preparation, certification applications, or product testing facilitation.

• Why It Works: The GNBS’s new facility will drive demand for businesses needing help navigating certification processes for exports or local market standards.

• How to Start: Build a simple online presence or collaborate with small manufacturers. Offer services on a pay-per-application basis or monthly retainer.

• Potential Revenue: Charge GYD $20,000–$50,000 per application or project, depending on complexity.

Why These Ideas Work

• Alignment with Growth: Each idea leverages the expanding economy and new developments like public sector wage increases, international franchises, and certification facilities.

• Scalability: These side hustles can start small with low upfront costs and grow based on demand.

• Immediate Need: All ideas address gaps in the market that are emerging due to recent developments, making them high-potential ventures.