Access to finance, new markets and business partnerships will take centre stage at GuyExpo 2026, as the Government seeks to give local entrepreneurs greater opportunities to expand amid Guyana’s rapidly changing economy.
The 31st edition of Guyana’s premier trade and investment exposition was officially launched Thursday at the National Exhibition Centre in Sophia under the theme, “Creating Tomorrow’s Opportunities Through Today’s Investments.” The event runs from November 12 to 15.
Delivering the feature address, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues said GuyExpo is intended to connect businesses with potential customers, investors, suppliers and partners while helping entrepreneurs identify opportunities to enter new markets.
“Last year, we placed greater emphasis on business-to-business engagement and that remains an important part of this experience. We want businesses to use this platform to meet potential customers, partners, investors and suppliers and to explore opportunities that can take them into new markets.”
Rodrigues also highlighted the forthcoming Guyana Development Bank as another potential source of support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.
According to Rodrigues, the bank is expected to provide financing of up to G$3 million, together with technical assistance and business-development support. The financing could assist entrepreneurs with purchasing equipment, expanding operations and developing new products.
“Access to finance remains an important part of that equation particularly for our micro, small and medium-sized businesses.”
She said investment should not be viewed solely as large-scale capital expenditure, pointing to small businesses purchasing equipment, entrepreneurs investing in training and young people developing new skills.
GuyExpo, which began in 1995 as a local exhibition, has grown into a national platform for businesses to showcase products and services, establish commercial relationships and explore opportunities for growth.
Rodrigues said the exposition also provides a platform for showcasing Guyanese innovation, culture and locally produced goods, particularly to younger generations who have attended the event over the years.
She said GuyExpo’s role is becoming increasingly important as Guyana’s economy undergoes significant changes.
“The Guyana of today is very different from the Guyana of 1995 when GuyExpo was first launched. Our economy has expanded, new industries are emerging, connectivity is increasing and technology is creating new ways for businesses to operate and reach customers.”
The minister said businesses must be prepared to adapt to those changes and capitalise on emerging opportunities.
She said the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce will continue supporting entrepreneurs through training, business development, standards, market access and other programmes aimed at strengthening their capacity.
The Government’s stated objective is to see more Guyanese businesses expand, create employment, increase local production and become competitive in regional and international markets.
GuyExpo 2026 will bring together businesses from across Guyana from November 12 to 15, with exhibitors expected to use the event to promote their products and services while pursuing new customers, investors, suppliers and commercial partnerships.
Registration for exhibitors and sponsors is open through the GuyExpo website, with further updates to be provided by the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce.
