79 new members join GCCI in 2025, recording 16.8% increase in gross revenue

The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has accepted 79 new members over the past year, while also advancing community outreach, which supported the Guyana Cancer Institute through patient care and refurbishment efforts. The announcement was made by GCCI President Kathy Smith during the 136th General Meeting of the GCCI at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, Kingston, Georgetown, on Thursday evening.
“Throughout the year, the committee welcomed 79 new members, specifically at the GCCI President’s Reception, and hosted the Nadine Gilbert Ramboran Cancer Awareness fundraising mix-up, with proceeds supporting the Guyana Cancer Institute through patient support and refurbishment,” Smith stated.

The Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee, chaired by Orson Ferguson, focused on developing the chamber’s membership while advancing entrepreneurship initiatives. Meanwhile, she highlighted that the committee collaborated in planning the GCCI President’s Reception and launched the 2025 Team Internship Programme, which provided 15 students with practical work experience across 14 member companies.
The committee also organised National Small Business Week, featuring workshops on label design, business management, financial awareness and record-keeping, in partnership with the Small Business Bureau (SBB). Additionally, the Construction and Health, Safety, Environment and Security (HSEC) Committee continued its efforts to promote best practices within the sector. Turning her focus to the GCCI’s financial performance for the year, she revealed some notable figures, particularly in relation to gross revenue.
“Overall, gross revenue increased from 105.86 million in 2024 to 123.71 million in 2025, representing an increase of 17.85 million or 16.84 per cent. This growth was driven by strong performance across several of the chamber’s key initiatives and events, which continue to serve as an important platform for engagement with the private sector.” Meanwhile, she noted that the Business Awards Gala once again proved to be one of the chamber’s flagship events.
“The event generated gross revenue of $17 million, with expenses of $11.8 million, resulting in a surplus of 5.2 million. Sponsorship grew by 550,000, or eight per cent, while ticket sales increased by 566,000, representing a 6 per cent rise compared to 2024. The continued support from sponsors and members reflects the prestige and value of this event within the business community.”
Another important milestone for the Chamber in 2025 was the successful reintroduction of National Small Business Week. While this event was not executed in 2024, renewed commitment from the Secretariat and Executive Management Committee allowed it to return in 2025.
“The initiative proved to be both impactful and financially successful, generating a surplus of 5.8 million while also reaffirming the chamber’s commitment to supporting and promoting small and medium-sized enterprises across Guyana.” The chamber also continued its engagement with the global energy sector through participation in the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC).
“While this event recorded a deficit of $442,000, significant improvements were achieved in its financial performance. Revenue increased by $333,000, while expenses were reduced by 698,000, resulting in a reduction of the overall deficit by approximately $1 million compared to 2024.”
The chamber expressed optimism that the initiative will move into a surplus position by 2026, citing strengthened collaboration with partners such as the Guyana Office for Investment (Go-Invest) and increased participation of Guyanese companies within its delegation and exhibition at the Guyana booth.
Additionally, total expenses increased by $10.8 million when compared to 2024, reflecting the expansion of the chamber’s programmes and activities. Event-related expenses rose by $3.4 million, in line with the growth and success of major engagements, while administrative expenses increased by $9.7 million, largely due to strategic investments aimed at strengthening the chamber’s secretariat.