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Georgetown’s Mayor Pt. Ubraj Narine made a noteworthy appearance this morning at the highly anticipated Guyana Small & Medium-Sized Enterprise Investment Conference. The event, aimed at fostering economic growth and innovation within the region, brought together entrepreneurs and investors.
Mayor Narine, known for his unwavering commitment to promoting local businesses and driving sustainable development, took center stage as he delivered a captivating keynote address to a captivated audience. His speech centered around the crucial role that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play in driving economic prosperity and creating employment opportunities.
See keynote address below:
It is an absolute honour and privilege to stand before you today at the Guyana Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise Investment Conference. This gathering marks a pivotal moment in our nation’s economic development, as we come together to celebrate entrepreneurship, innovation, and investment opportunities in the vibrant landscape of Guyana.
First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the organisers of this event, whose vision and dedication have made this conference a reality. Your commitment to fostering the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in our city and country is commendable, and it demonstrates the unwavering belief in the potential and power of our entrepreneurial spirit.
Guyana, with its rich natural resources and strategic geographical location, presents a unique landscape for investment and economic expansion. Our city recognises that SMEs are the backbone of our economy, driving job creation, innovation, and sustainable development. Thus, we are committed to creating an enabling environment that empowers entrepreneurs and supports their growth.
Today, we gather to explore the myriad opportunities available to both local and international investors interested in partnering with Guyana’s SMEs. Our country’s economic transformation is well underway, driven by sectors such as agriculture, energy, manufacturing, tourism, and information technology. These sectors offer immense potential for investment, and they form the foundation upon which our SMEs can thrive and prosper.
However, we recognize that there are still challenges to overcome. Access to funding remains a significant hurdle for many SMEs, particularly those in their early stages. As Mayor I would like to see the Government establishing specialised financial instruments and venture capital funds to address this issue and provide the necessary support for entrepreneurs to scale their businesses notwithstanding removing red tapes that causes unnecessary obstruction in the SME Sector.
Additionally, the Government should invest in business development services, mentorship programs, and technology adoption to enhance the competitiveness and resilience of our SME sector.
To our esteemed investors, I urge you to seize this opportunity to explore the untapped potential of Guyana. By investing in our SMEs, you play a crucial role in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and fostering innovation. Your investments will not only yield financial returns but will also contribute to the sustainable development of our nation, lifting communities out of poverty and enhancing the quality of life for all Guyanese.
To our aspiring entrepreneurs, I encourage you to dream big, embrace innovation, and seize the opportunities that lie before you. The future of Guyana’s economy rests in your hands. Your ideas, passion, and determination will shape the destiny of our nation and pave the way for a brighter future.
In conclusion, the Guyana Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise Investment Conference serves as a catalyst for change, a platform for collaboration, and a beacon of hope for our entrepreneurial community. Let us come together, harness our collective potential, and embark on a transformative journey that will unlock the full potential of Guyana’s SME sector.
Thank you, and I wish you all a fruitful and inspiring conference.
