New learning centre to support agricultural, women-led small businesses

In an effort to support small ventures, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Tuesday commissioned the Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre.

The centre will serve as a training and development hub for micro, small and medium sized enterprises (MSME), particularly those involved in agriculture, providing business fundamentals to members and non-members. Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha in his remarks said the facility coincides with national plans to modernise infrastructure and training.

“Our five years agriculture plan focuses on empowering women and youth through training, startup support and access to agri-tech, strengthening market system and value chains, promoting climate smart innovation.

“It will provide women and micro-entrepreneurs with the skills and tools to strive,” the Agriculture Minister said.

Notably, women makeup 35 per cent of participants in the sector, whether through farming or other areas and play an integral role. It is the government’s intent to have at least 50 per cent of the ventures within the sector to be women-led by 2030.

Through this facility, support for accessing markets, tailored mentoring and pivotal support for sustainable production will be available.

Supported by Global Affairs Canada and the Ministry of Agriculture, the initiative reflects a shared commitment to modernising the sector and empowering women and youth to lead in agri-entrepreneurship.

GCCI President Kathy Smith said farmers and small business owners play a pivotal role in ensuring national food security.

“I can tell you of the importance of farmers to food security in Guyana and the region.

“I can also tell you about the growing number of women-owned and women-led businesses in the Chamber and the zeal they have displayed. The Chamber is a dedicated supporter of local businesses and entrepreneurial growth,” Smith said.

Adam Loyer of Global Affairs Canada reaffirmed Canada’s ongoing support for agricultural and entrepreneurial development and said through initiatives such as the Sustainable Agriculture in the Caribbean (SAC) project, focus is placed on climate-resilient value chains and increased participation by women and youth.

The commissioning of the centre represents a major step in bridging agriculture and entrepreneurship, and strengthening food security.