Small business grants distributed in Region Six

Small business owners of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) on Saturday received grants of $150,000 from the Small Business Bureau (SBB).

This is part of a series of distribution exercises planned for several regions across the country.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the SBB Mohamed Ibrahim told DPI that the distribution is only part of the support the agency gives to small businesses in Guyana

“We are here distributing grants and we did just about 130 just for this region, Region Six. We have people in a variety of small enterprises and we give out about $150, 000 each grant and these grants is all within the plans of the small business bureau to promote sustainable growth and to help with poverty reduction within the entire region. This is one of the major aspects and we focus on helping these small businesses grow,” Ibrahim said.

The distribution was done at the business incubator at Belvedere.

The SBB assists persons with grants, training, business development and loan guarantee.

Several beneficiaries spoke with DPI, many of whom have been eagerly awaiting the grant.

“I think it’s good, it’s great, at least it’s a help for starting a small business,” said Bibi Rahaman, who owns a grocery business.

“ The extra money now that we get we will be able to boost the business,” said Padraatt Seebran.

Young businessman Devindra Ramnarine, is excited to finally receive his grant.

“I have been waiting months now and I finally get it and this will help me to restock my shop…I receive $150,000,” he expressed.

Subike Solomon, a mother of two, is also grateful for receiving the grant, which she said will aid her small business.

 “ This sum of money that we can put into our business and It would help especially me, a mother of two, to expand in my business,” she said

The SBB will be in several other regions shortly to distribute more small business grants.