$3M in zero-interest loans given to 6 entrepreneurs living with disabilities

Six persons living with disabilities on Wednesday received loans totalling $3 million. The cheques were handed over by Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Susan Rodrigues and Permanent Secretary Roger Rogers at the Small Business Bureau.
In a social media post on the Ministry’s page, it was stated that the loans were secured through a revolving fund specifically designed to support entrepreneurs living with disabilities, providing them with access to loans of up to $500,000 with zero collateral, zero interest, and a repayment period of up to four years. The initiative is supported by the Human Services and Social Security Ministry.
Speaking about the handing over, Rodrigues noted that the initiative reflects the Government’s “One Guyana” philosophy, which prioritises inclusivity regardless of race, gender, geography, or physical ability.

“At its core, this fund is about ensuring that every citizen, regardless of ability or disability, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development. With this investment, we are not only supporting businesses but also recognising the immense potential and resilience of our people,” she said.
The Minister commended the diversity of ventures among the new beneficiaries, which include businesses in cell phones and accessories, landscaping, catering, and retail. She emphasised that sustainability and accountability are critical to the fund’s continued success.
“This revolving fund creates a cycle of empowerment, where each success story contributes to the empowerment of others, thereby creating a self-sustaining engine of progress.”
She further assured recipients that the Ministry’s monitoring and evaluation team will follow up to track their progress and provide ongoing support.
“We must map your progress and provide the additional support needed along the way so that these businesses are not only established but also positioned for growth,” she explained.
Since its inception in 2023, the fund has disbursed 41 loans valued at more than $20 million. For 2025 alone, 14 loans totalling $7 million have already been issued.
Rodrigues urged beneficiaries to make the best use of this opportunity.
“I encourage you to utilise these funds wisely and for their intended purpose. I look forward to hearing your success stories and to seeing the sustained growth of this fund so that many more can benefit in the years ahead.”