By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News|
— As Guyana’s economy undergoes a historic transformation, Josephine Tapp, President of the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry Guyana (WCCIG), is doubling down on her mission to ensure that no woman entrepreneur is left behind. In a recent interview with Nightly News’ Antonio Dey, Tapp emphasized that her second term will be defined by a push for equitable market access, particularly for women operating at the micro-enterprise level.
Tapp, whose background in law and business provides a strategic foundation for her advocacy, argues that the “ripple effects” of empowering women are essential for the country’s broader social and economic stability.
Breaking the “Collateral Barrier”
One of the most significant hurdles for women in small business is the struggle to secure financing for large-scale contracts. Tapp identified a systemic gap that the Chamber is working to close.
- The Challenge: Many women entrepreneurs lack the traditional collateral required by banks to access the capital needed for “big business deals.”
- The WCCIG Solution: The Chamber is building bridges by facilitating access to tailored finance options, specialized training, and networking events designed to put micro-enterprises in front of major industry players.
Demystifying the Oil and Gas Sector
With the rapid expansion of Guyana’s energy sector, many women feel sidelined by the technical and capital-intensive nature of the industry. Tapp noted that the Chamber is actively working to demystify this space.
- Information Access: The WCCIG provides ongoing support and data to help women understand where they fit within the oil and gas supply chain, from catering and logistics to professional services.
- Support Systems: “It’s a privilege to support women who believe in themselves,” Tapp shared, noting that confidence, backed by tools and knowledge, is the key to breaking into high-growth industries.
Building Bridges to Success
Under Tapp’s leadership, the WCCIG has transitioned from merely “opening doors” to actively constructing the infrastructure for long-term success.
Key Chamber Initiatives for 2026:
- Skills Development: Training programs focused on digital literacy and financial management.
- Strategic Networking: Connecting micro-enterprises with the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) and other larger bodies.
- Advocacy: Pushing for policy changes that favor woman-owned businesses in government and private sector procurement.
“Many women don’t have the collateral to access big business deals… The Chamber’s role is to level the playing field,” Tapp concluded.
