Linden entrepreneurs eager for Development Bank, Dr Singh promises support to access financing

Aspiring entrepreneurs in Linden are already looking ahead to the opportunities a new Development Bank could unlock, with Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh saying Tuesday’s government outreach revealed strong interest from residents eager to start or expand businesses. Speaking after the outreach at Watooka House, Singh said many residents expressed excitement about the proposed bank, which is expected to provide financing tailored to entrepreneurs and small businesses. “The entrepreneurial spirit is very much alive in Guyana and very much alive in Region 10,” the Finance Minister said in an interview with the Starting Point Podcast. According to Singh, officials recorded the names and information of interested residents and assured them they would be contacted once the Development Bank becomes operational. He said the government intends to work closely with prospective borrowers to build their capacity so they can successfully access financing. “We indicated to them that once the bank gets off the ground, we’re going to be in touch with them and work with them to build their capacity to be able to access financing under the Development Bank,” he explained. Singh believes the initiative has the potential to transform the country’s business landscape. “As I’ve said before, it will unleash a whole new wave of entrepreneurship in Guyana,” he said. The minister described the response from residents as “extremely positive and extremely exciting,” saying the level of interest reflected the ambitions of many people in Region 10 who are eager to create businesses, generate income and contribute to the local economy. The Development Bank is one of several initiatives being pursued by the government to expand access to financing, encourage private sector growth and support economic diversification. It also formed part of discussions during Tuesday’s outreach, where ministers and heads of government agencies met directly with residents to address concerns and outline upcoming programmes.