The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry will host a Business Breakfast Seminar on June 19, 2026, to help micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSME) prepare for opportunities expected through the Development Bank of Guyana.
The event will run from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Guyana Marriott Hotel. Dr. Ashni Singh, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, will deliver the keynote address. He is expected to speak on the topic, “Transforming Business Opportunities: The Role of the SME Development Bank of Guyana.”
GCCI President Kathy Smith told OilNOW that the seminar is intended to give businesses practical information on how they can access the bank.
“The GCCI’s Business Breakfast Seminar is aimed at adequately preparing micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises for the opportunities that are coming with the establishment of the SME Development Bank,” she explained.
The seminar comes as the Guyana government begins public outreach on the Guyana Development Bank.
A flyer issued by the Ministry of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation said the bank is being introduced to help citizens access financing and build successful businesses. The flyer said the bank will offer up to GY$3 million in financing, with 0% interest and no collateral required. Training, mentorship, and business support will also be offered.
Persons preparing to apply will need a business idea or plan, valid identification, business registration or a willingness to register, and National Insurance Scheme and Guyana Revenue Authority compliance.
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The government said small business owners, first-time entrepreneurs, youth and young professionals, women-owned businesses, persons with disabilities, farmers, agro-processors, creatives, and service providers should start preparing their business ideas and plans.
Smith said the GCCI seminar will bring together Dr. Singh, finance sector representatives, and policymakers.
“This event will ensure that every attendee leaves the room prepared with all the necessary information to tap into this bank to create the foundation for the success of their businesses.”
Smith said the event was designed to be accessible to MSMEs and persons who want to start businesses.
“This event is accessible and inclusive–it is designed in such a way that MSMEs and those with a desire to become entrepreneurs can get into the room. We want to see MSMEs not just survive but to grow and thrive–after all, 70 percent of our members are MSMEs.”
The government has advised interested persons to stay informed through official government channels, look out for outreach activities in their communities, and begin preparing their business ideas.
