12/07/2026
One of the realities we rarely discuss honestly is the nature of Guyana’s economy. We are a nation of fewer than one million people. Even with unprecedented oil wealth flowing into the country, there are only so many consumers, only so many businesses and only so much local demand. If hundreds of entrepreneurs borrow money to open similar restaurants, hardware stores, retail shops or transportation services, many of them will inevitably struggle because they are competing for the same relatively small customer base.
This is not a failure of entrepreneurship. It is a limitation of market size. That is why financing alone cannot be the measure of success. Businesses survive because they consistently attract customers, adapt to changing markets, manage costs, deliver quality products and compete effectively. Capital helps businesses begin that journey, but customers determine whether they survive.
By Dr. Karen Abrams, MBA, AA Dr. Karen Abrams writes a weekly column on technology, education, and business. She is a co-founder of STEMGuyana and Pathway Online Academy. (Kaieteur News) – The establishment of Guyana’s Development Bank is one of the most important economic initiatives undertaken...