Small business owners laud government training

Small business owners are thankful for the training programmes offered by the Small Business Bureau (SBB), saying the initiative has helped them strengthen operations, improve financial management, and expand their brands.

Like many entrepreneurs, Shamain Sanasiah said the training, which includes social media marketing and digital readiness, has been more than skills development. It has been a turning point in how she manages and grows her businesses.

Sanasiah told the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Saturday that the support received through the SBB has played a key role in building her brand and improving her technical skills.

“They helped me with my graphic design…Before I started this business, I had no idea how to create a logo. Going to the training there, I learned how to do my logo.”

She added that the support went beyond training, noting that access to processing facilities and exposure opportunities have also boosted her business.

“My product is being processed at their facility. I am very fortunate. I advise all small businesses to sign up with the Small Business Bureau so they can become clients and get more exposure for their products.”

Small business owner, Falana Fraser, highlighted that training in business management and record-keeping has had a lasting impact on her operations.

“It has been a great help, especially record keeping. That was a major thing for me,” she said, explaining that the knowledge gained helped her improve financial discipline and strengthen her business profile when engaging with financial institutions.

DPI also caught up with Waheeda Jaikaran, who said the SBB has played a major role in developing her business since she became a client in 2021.

“It has developed my business and put my business out there, especially through the digital marketing training,” she said.

Jaikaran noted that the sessions helped her create flyers, logos, and manage her own advertising, reducing reliance on external services.

“They taught us how to use social media to promote our businesses ourselves. It made me more confident and bold in public speaking as well,” Jaikaran explained.

Owner of Natural Glow Organic Skincare, Cindy Hall, described the training as a “blessing,” particularly the sessions on financial management.

“The record-keeping and management training was very important for me. Before, I wasn’t tracking my sales or expenses properly,” she said, noting that the training has helped her better understand her cash flow.

“Now I can track my sales, expenses and profits. I am able to organise my business better,” she added. “It is a great initiative because many young entrepreneurs need guidance to become successful.”

The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, through the SBB, continues to support micro and small enterprises through training, technical assistance and market access initiatives.

Looking ahead, the government has signalled continued support for the sector, with the upcoming launch of the Guyana Development Bank expected to expand financing and growth opportunities for small businesses nationwide.