Ogle Airport Expansion Plans to Position Guyana as a Transport Hub

Guyana’s government is pushing forward with plans to expand the Eugene F. Correia International Airport at Ogle, aimed at establishing the country as a key transportation hub for the region. According to Public Works Minister Juan Edghill, the airport’s extension will increase seating in the waiting area, add duty-free shopping, and feature a new executive lounge. Plans include a longer runway to accommodate larger aircraft, boosting connectivity across the Caribbean and beyond. The expansion will also open opportunities for cargo transportation, including fresh produce exports, positioning Ogle Airport as a central link in the country’s rapidly growing transport infrastructure.

$2 Billion Infrastructure Boost for Upper Corentyne’s Agricultural Sector

The Guyanese government has committed $2 billion to enhance infrastructure in Upper Corentyne, aiming to stimulate agricultural production on 30,000 acres of land. The investment supports initiatives like sugarcane, hemp, and corn farming, as well as shrimp farming projects. The new infrastructure is expected to revitalize private and cooperative farming activities, providing local farmers with better access to irrigation and essential resources. This initiative aligns with broader government efforts to improve food security and drive rural economic growth.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprises (SEs)

1. Electric Bike Safety Gear & Training
   Opportunity: With a push for road safety compliance for e-bikes, SEs can supply helmets, reflective gear, and other protective accessories. Additionally, safety training workshops could cater to new riders, creating both product sales and service revenue.
   Consideration: Collaborate with schools, community centers, and the Traffic Department to expand reach and raise awareness about safety regulations.

2. Cultural Handicrafts for Guyana-Suriname Flights
   Opportunity: New direct flights between Guyana and Suriname create a fresh market for artisanal products like souvenirs, crafts, and snacks. SEs can capitalize on this by offering high-quality, culturally-themed items at airports and tourism hubs.
   Consideration: Partner with the Ministry of Tourism for co-marketing and ensure product quality to cater to international tastes.

3. Local Equipment Repair Services for Upper Corentyne Agriculture
   Opportunity: The $2 billion investment in agriculture infrastructure will boost demand for machinery repair and maintenance services in rural areas. SEs could set up mobile repair units, focusing on accessible and affordable equipment servicing for local farmers.
   Consideration: Build connections with agricultural cooperatives and local farmers to ensure steady demand and cultivate customer loyalty.

Medium Enterprises (MEs)

1. Logistics and Transportation Services for Agriculture
   Opportunity: With 30,000 acres designated for agriculture in Upper Corentyne, MEs can provide essential logistics, including refrigerated transportation, bulk haulage, and equipment rentals.
   Consideration: Establish partnerships with agricultural co-ops and government agencies, ensuring stable revenue and long-term contracts.

2. Heavy Machinery Rental and Leasing
   Opportunity: The high demand for heavy machinery, illustrated by the $7 million excavator case, highlights a market for reliable rental services. MEs could offer a trusted, transparent leasing program with financing options and strong maintenance support.
   Consideration: Work with vetted international suppliers and train staff in machinery maintenance to differentiate from unreliable suppliers.

3. Educational Tourism Packages Highlighting Cultural Icons
   Opportunity: With the recent honorary doctorate awards, MEs can create themed tours showcasing Guyana’s influential cultural and academic icons. This can appeal to both local and international tourists, generating revenue through educational tourism.
   Consideration: Partner with UG, the Ministry of Tourism, and awardees for unique experiences that spotlight Guyana’s rich heritage and modern contributions.

Large Enterprises (LEs)

1. Agro-Processing Facilities for New Farmland
   Opportunity: With significant investment in agriculture in Upper Corentyne, LEs could establish large-scale processing plants for crops like corn, sugarcane, and potentially hemp, targeting both local and export markets.

   
   Consideration: Leverage government incentives, partner with agricultural committees, and focus on export-ready packaging and quality to tap into international demand.

2. Oil & Gas Support Services and Infrastructure Development
   Opportunity: Hess and Exxon’s expanding operations create demand for logistics, oilfield services, and environmental management. LEs can explore supply chain solutions, offshore logistics, or even environmental consulting to serve this growing industry.

   
   Consideration: Form joint ventures with established oil and gas service providers and emphasize sustainable practices to appeal to global standards.

3. Luxury Travel and Hospitality on New Guyana-Suriname Route
   Opportunity: The direct flights from Guyana to Suriname align with tourism goals, creating an opportunity for LEs to invest in luxury accommodations, airport lounges, and high-end travel services targeting both tourists and business travelers.

   
   Consideration: Partner with Caribbean Airlines and the Ministry of Tourism to create exclusive travel packages and explore possible tax benefits for luxury tourism infrastructure.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. E-Bike Rental & Safety Training Service

Description: With the rising popularity of e-bikes and new safety regulations, an e-bike rental and training service could capitalize on both locals and tourists looking for affordable, eco-friendly transportation options. The service can include short-term rentals as well as quick safety workshops for new users, educating them on the legal requirements and road safety tips.

Why It Works: E-bikes are gaining traction as convenient, cost-effective transport, especially for young professionals and tourists. Offering short rentals (hourly or daily) would make it accessible, while safety training appeals to those concerned with following new regulations.

Potential Revenue: Each rental and training session could generate $1,000–$2,000 GYD, with potential for recurring customers. Weekend tourist traffic could further boost earnings.

2. Tour Guide for Cross-Border Guyana-Suriname Trips

Description: With new non-stop flights connecting Guyana and Suriname, a side hustle as a weekend or part-time tour guide could appeal to both locals and international visitors interested in cross-border excursions. The guide service could offer curated day trips or weekend packages, showcasing cultural highlights, local cuisine, and unique experiences across both countries.

Why It Works: There’s growing interest in regional tourism, and visitors often prefer guided, hassle-free experiences. Guyanese with local knowledge and cultural insight can tap into this demand without large upfront costs by coordinating trips with local transport and hospitality providers.

Potential Revenue: Depending on group size, a well-curated tour could earn GYD $20,000–$50,000 per trip. Collaborations with local businesses could add additional revenue through commissions on food, lodging, or activities.

3. Agricultural Product Prep & Supply for Upper Corentyne Farmers

Description: With the government investing in agricultural development in Upper Corentyne, there’s a demand for basic agricultural inputs and prepped materials, like seed packs, organic fertilizers, or packaging solutions for produce. A side hustle supplying these products or providing a preparation service (e.g., prepping seeds, packaging harvested produce) could cater to farmers looking to save time and resources.

Why It Works: Farmers will soon face an influx of new agricultural initiatives, but they may lack time or resources for value-added services. A person offering supply and prep services can support farmers while turning a profit from the area’s revitalized agricultural sector.

Potential Revenue: Even a small markup on products like organic fertilizers or packaging supplies could bring in GYD $10,000–$30,000 monthly, with growth potential as demand from farmers increases.