Impressive turnout for ‘AccelerateHer’ programme

…as over 100 women look to benefit from business training, mentorship

The Centre for Local Business Development has officially launched this year’s AccelerateHer programme on Wednesday, and an impressive turnout of 160 applicants have been drawn thereto.

The AccelerateHer programme offers training and mentorship to help women-owned businesses grow. It is designed to provide access to business advisory services, tailored workshops, and a peer-learning environment — all fostering growth and innovation in women-led enterprises.
The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Centre for Local Business Development, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry Guyana (WCCIG), and other stakeholders.
Speaking at this year’s launch event, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Administration at the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, Arianna Beharry, emphasized the importance of supporting and empowering such a large number of women in their entrepreneurial journeys.
“Today we have 160 applications. I remember when we were about to do the roll call to put the ad out, and it was such an exciting time. Then, to see this turnout, it’s amazing. It’s always incredible to be in a room filled with women who have that energy, that drive, that passion that pushes you beyond so many challenges. And as women, the challenges never end. It’s something we constantly face,” she said.
She added, “Empowerment means different things to different women; depending on your background, your context, where you came from, and how you were socialized. And for me, I think it’s quite a beautiful thing, because we live in such a beautifully diverse country.”
Beharry also highlighted the opportunities available for women who may not know their next move in business.
“For those who don’t know, you’re in business, and may think you’re checking all the boxes; but some of you might not be sure what the next step ought to be, or how to access financing. Those services are available to you for free,” she explained.
She urged participants to take advantage of support from the Ministry, which offers help in creating business plans, improving social media presence, packaging and labelling, and accessing business grants.
“Additionally, we are also working on a partnership with the Commercial Registry, because we know the process can be intimidating. Please take full advantage of the services offered. For me, empowerment means grabbing every educational opportunity,” Beharry said.
Acknowledging the fears and misconceptions many women have when it comes to registering a business, she said, “We’re also working on a partnership with the Commercial Registry. Many people find the idea of registering a business intimidating, because of the perception that it’s filled with legal complexities. But with this partnership, we would like to cover that cost for you, to make it easier and remove another barrier along the way. That’s just one of the many ways we’re supporting you.”
In 2021, over 90 women entrepreneurs from seven different regions and various sectors applied to be a part of AccelerateHer. From that group, 35 women were shortlisted for Phase One, and 16 progressed to Phase Two.
The fourth cycle of AccelerateHer will run from April to July 2025. Selected applicants have already been notified by April 8, 2025.
The programme began with a two-day weekend boot camp on April 11 and 12, during which 30 participants were involved in group sessions and complete take-home activities. This phase focused on building a business model canvas and developing value propositions.
Phase Two will take place from May to July. Selected participants from the boot camp would enter a 10-week programme in which they would be required to dedicate 8 to 10 hours per week. This stage includes one-on-one mentorship, tailored coaching, specialized workshops, and weekly peer learning sessions, scheduled every Thursday from 09:00h to 12:00h. Participants would also conduct a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis of their businesses.
The programme will conclude in July with a Demo Day and graduation ceremony, wherein participants would receive certificates and engage with members of the business community, potential buyers and industry partners.