Guyana’s Aviation Sector to Integrate AI for Modernization

The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) is taking steps to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into the country’s aviation sector. GCAA Director General Egbert Field, speaking at the Global Implementation Support Symposium in Abu Dhabi, highlighted the need for Guyana to build AI infrastructure and expertise. The move aims to improve data-driven decision-making, streamline airport operations, and enhance security. The government has already introduced electronic immigration gates as part of its modernization efforts.

Guyana Energy Conference Set for Record-Breaking Year with 7,000 Attendees

The Guyana Energy Conference & Supply Chain Expo, scheduled for February 18-21 at the Marriott Hotel, is expected to attract over 7,000 participants, including 4,000 delegates. Key speakers include President Irfaan Ali, Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader, and former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. The event will also feature an Energy Run, a "Taste of Guyana" showcase, and initiatives to engage students and young professionals in the energy sector. Major industry players like ExxonMobil, HESS, and CNOOC have signed on as sponsors.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprises (SE)

1. ATM Support and Maintenance Services

   • With Be! Payments and Scotiabank expanding their ATM networks across the country, there is a growing demand for on-site maintenance, security, and cash replenishment services.

   • Small businesses can offer ATM cleaning, surveillance, and minor repair services to banks and fintech companies, ensuring machine uptime and reliability.

2. AI-Powered Personal Finance Consulting

   • As Be! Payments introduces AI-driven financial tracking, and the aviation sector explores AI applications, small enterprises can offer personal finance consulting services using AI tools.

   • Services can range from helping individuals use AI-based budgeting tools to providing financial literacy workshops for communities transitioning into a digital banking ecosystem.

3. Event Catering & Mobile Food Services for Conferences and Trade Shows

   • With the Guyana Energy Conference expecting 7,000 attendees, and China-Guyana investment growing, there is a strong opportunity for catering services specializing in high-end corporate events.

   • Mobile food vendors with premium offerings (fusion cuisine, specialty coffee, plant-based meals) can target conference attendees, business expos, and corporate gatherings.

Medium Enterprises (ME)

1. AI Solutions for SMEs and Government Digital Transformation

   • The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority is moving towards AI adoption, signaling a broader push for AI integration in logistics, finance, and government services.

   • A mid-sized AI consultancy could provide solutions such as AI-powered customer service bots, fraud detection systems, or supply chain optimization tools tailored for SMEs and government contracts.

2. Oil & Gas Supply Chain Services

   • With CGX/Frontera losing their Corentyne Block rights, new entrants may enter the oil exploration space. Medium enterprises can provide logistics, equipment rentals, safety gear, or local talent recruitment for these companies.

   • Guyana’s Energy Conference is an excellent platform to connect with oil and gas service providers and secure contracts.

3. Luxury & Corporate Travel Services

   • The AI-driven modernization of the aviation industry and the increase in international business visitors (China-Guyana trade, Energy Conference) indicate a rising demand for high-end travel, chauffeur, and concierge services.

   • Businesses could specialize in executive transport, business-class accommodation booking, and VIP airport transfers.

Large Enterprises (LE)

1. Private Financial Infrastructure Development

   • The expansion of Be! Payments and Scotiabank ATMs creates a market for independent banking infrastructure, such as private banking kiosks, fintech-powered micro-lending platforms, and cashless payment hubs.

   • Large investors could set up private digital banking solutions integrated with AI and blockchain for secure and seamless financial transactions.

2. Strategic Investment in Aviation & Airport Infrastructure

   • Guyana’s aviation sector modernization and AI integration present an opportunity for a private-public partnership (PPP) to develop smart airports, premium lounges, and AI-driven air traffic solutions.

   • With increasing business travel and energy sector expansion, an investment in airport hospitality, VIP lounges, or AI-powered security systems could be highly profitable.

3. High-End Commercial Real Estate for Foreign Investors

   • As China-Guyana relations and energy-related investments increase, there will be growing demand for premium office spaces, international-standard serviced apartments, and luxury business hubs.

   • Large-scale real estate firms can capitalize on this demand by developing smart office buildings, mixed-use commercial spaces, and corporate housing for international executives relocating to Guyana.

Additional Thoughts

• AI is emerging as a strong business trend across multiple sectors, from finance and aviation to security and logistics.

• The ATM rollout and fintech expansion create opportunities for both small financial service providers and large-scale banking infrastructure developers.

• The oil and gas sector shake-up suggests a fresh wave of investment, particularly in support services, supply chain, and logistics.

• Guyana’s international profile is growing, making hospitality, luxury services, and real estate key growth areas.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Mobile ATM Refill & Maintenance Service

Why it works: With over 100 new ATMs being installed across Guyana (by Be! Payments & Scotiabank), there is an increasing need for ATM upkeep, cash refilling, and on-call servicing.

How it works:

• Partner with local banks or fintech companies to offer ATM cleaning, minor repairs, and cash logistics services (non-security-related).

• Banks and fintechs prefer outsourcing maintenance to small service providers instead of managing in-house teams.

• Expand into mobile ATMs (coming soon) by offering logistics or secure transportation support.

Potential Earnings: $200,000+ GYD per month per ATM contract
Investment Needed: Small tools, cleaning supplies, business registration, marketing

2. AI-Powered Business Consulting for SMEs

Why it works: Businesses are struggling with digital transformation as AI expands in finance, aviation, and banking. Small businesses need help integrating AI tools for accounting, marketing, and automation.

How it works:

• Learn free or low-cost AI tools (ChatGPT, Midjourney, AI bookkeeping, Canva AI, Notion AI).

• Offer part-time consulting to small businesses on how to automate tasks, boost marketing, and optimize their operations using AI.

• Charge per session (GYD $15,000 – $30,000 per client) or set up a monthly subscription model.

Potential Earnings: $150,000 – $500,000 GYD per month
Investment Needed: A laptop, internet access, and free/paid AI tools

3. Premium Corporate Transport & Chauffeur Services

Why it works: With energy conferences, high-end business travel, and more foreign investors coming to Guyana, there is a huge demand for premium private transport.
Most executives and business travelers do not want to use regular taxis—they prefer professional, safe, and business-class transport.

How it works:

• Offer on-demand premium rides for corporate clients, conference attendees, and government officials.

• Partner with hotels, event organizers, and energy companies to provide pre-booked rides.

• Upsell airport transfers, late-night VIP rides, and business trip packages.

Potential Earnings: $300,000 – $1,000,000 GYD per month
Investment Needed: A reliable car (or leasing a high-end vehicle), business registration, a website or social media presence

Final Thoughts:

These side hustles tap into Guyana’s current expansion trends—financial inclusion, AI-driven business growth, and luxury services for high-net-worth individuals.

• If you have tech skills, AI Business Consulting is best.

• If you have a car, Premium Corporate Transport is an easy win.

• If you want passive, high-demand work, ATM Maintenance & Support is ideal.