By Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News|
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has officially set the stage for We Lift 6, Guyana’s premier exhibition for women-owned businesses. At a high-level stakeholder engagement on Monday, February 16, 2026, Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud announced that this year’s focus has shifted toward regional and international expansion under the theme: “Made by Guyanese Women for the World.”
The event, which is scheduled for March 6–8, 2026, is expected to feature roughly 400 women entrepreneurs, including veteran business owners and first-time exhibitors.
Bridging the Gap to Global Markets
Minister Persaud emphasized that the program has outgrown its origins as a micro-business showcase. Over the past five years, the Ministry has tracked a significant transition among participants moving from micro to small, and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
The Global Preparedness Strategy:
- Standardization: Stakeholders from local and international companies are working with vendors to ensure their products meet the rigorous packaging and quality standards required for export.
- Documentation Support: The Ministry is assisting women in securing the necessary business registrations, health certificates, and export permits needed to access larger supply chains.
- Tracking Progress: A dedicated unit within the Ministry is monitoring business growth to assess the readiness of specific brands for the CARICOM and international markets.
“I think it is time you move to the rest of the world, and the intention behind all of this is to provide support,” Minister Persaud told the gathering of vendors.
The $100 Million Opportunity: Guyana Development Bank
A major highlight of the session was the discussion surrounding the upcoming Guyana Development Bank (GDB), which is slated to launch later in 2026 with an initial capital injection of US$100 million.
Financial Relief for Women Entrepreneurs:
- Interest-Free Loans: The GDB is expected to offer interest-free loans to eligible small businesses to foster rapid growth.
- Collateral-Free Access: Recognizing that lack of collateral is a primary barrier for women, the bank will offer collateral-free options for qualified applicants.
- Business Plan Readiness: The Minister urged participants to begin drafting their business plans and proposals immediately, as “ready” businesses will have first access to the fund once it becomes operational.
Mark Your Calendars: We Lift 6
- Dates: March 6, 7, and 8, 2026.
- Venue: Expected to return to the National Stadium (final venue confirmation pending).
- Participation: 400+ women showcasing everything from agro-processing and fashion to tech-based services and artisanal crafts.
The Ministry’s push for global competitiveness aligns with Guyana’s broader economic strategy to diversify exports beyond raw materials, positioning Guyanese craftsmanship and “decision intelligence” as premium global products.
