Four decades of entrepreneurship and empowerment: IPED launches 40th anniversary celebrations

The Institute of Private Enterprise Development Limited (IPED) has launched a year-long celebration to mark its 40th anniversary, commemorating four decades of empowering Guyanese entrepreneurs, transforming lives, and advancing national development.
The celebration comes under the theme “A Legacy of Empowerment: 40 Years of Promoting Entrepreneurship, Transforming Lives, and Supporting National Development.”
The launch, held in Georgetown, represents a major milestone for the institution, which has evolved from a modest initiative into one of Guyana’s most respected and impactful development organisations. IPED was founded on the vision of the late Dr Yesu Persaud, one of Guyana’s most distinguished business pioneers, who believed that Guyanese could shape their own economic destiny through entrepreneurship.
At a time when the national economy was defined by cooperative socialism, and private enterprise faced significant barriers, Dr Persaud recognised the urgent need for an organisation that would revive confidence in local enterprise and reignite the spirit of innovation. His vision laid the foundation for a national institution that continues to promote self-reliance, enterprise, and empowerment across Guyana.
Originally established in 1985 as the Institute of Small Enterprise Development (ISED) and formally incorporated in 1986, IPED received early recognition from the Government of Guyana. The late President Hugh Desmond Hoyte declared it an “Institution of National Worth”, acknowledging its vital role in rebuilding Guyana’s economic and social landscape.
From its inception, IPED’s progress has been supported by a strong network of local and international partners, including the Pan American Development Foundation (PADF), the Foundation for International Training (FIT) of Canada, and a number of private sector contributors such as Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), Seagrams (UK), Booker Sugar Company, Texaco (WI) Ltd, West Indian Trading (Canada), W Breitenstein of Holland, and the Commonwealth Development Corporation (CDC). Further support from institutions such as PL480 (USAID), the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and the European Investment Bank (EIB) later helped strengthen IPED’s sustainability and reach.
What began in 1986 with just one employee, Jeff Adiken, managing all aspects of operations, has now grown into a robust national network employing over 100 professionals across 14 branches countrywide. Today, IPED stands as one of the most geographically inclusive and influential development organisations in Guyana, with an enduring presence in every region.
Over the past 39 years, IPED has disbursed more than 150,000 loans, helping thousands of Guyanese, particularly women, youth, and individuals from underserved communities, to start and grow their businesses. Beyond providing financial support, the organisation also delivers mentorship and business development services, fuelling innovation, job creation, and long-term sustainability in small and medium enterprises.
To commemorate its 40th year, IPED has unveiled a line-up of activities to celebrate its legacy and inspire new generations of entrepreneurs.
These include a tribute to the late Dr Yesu Persaud, held on October 18, 2025, at the World Trade Centre in Guyana; a National Business Pitch Competition for aspiring and existing entrepreneurs, with entries open until December 15, 2025; and an art competition titled “The Spirit of Enterprise”, inviting artists to depict themes of empowerment and entrepreneurship, with a submission deadline of January 15, 2026.
The anniversary calendar will continue in 2026 with a mini exposition showcasing IPED’s clients, partners, and innovators, followed by a two-day micro conference in April, which will bring together local and international experts to explore the future of entrepreneurship and small business development in Guyana.
As IPED steps into its fifth decade, the organisation reaffirmed its mission to “help people help themselves through enterprise development.” According to the institution, the anniversary is not only a celebration of its history but also a renewed commitment to shaping the future – nurturing new generations of Guyanese entrepreneurs, advancing innovation, and deepening IPED’s role in national transformation.
Under the leadership of Komal Samaroo, Chairman of the IPED Board of Directors, and a dedicated Board whose members volunteer their expertise, along with a committed management team and staff, IPED continues to uphold its founding principles of integrity, service, and empowerment.
Over the past four decades, IPED’s work has left a lasting impact on Guyana’s private sector and national development, symbolising the enduring legacy of its founder, Dr Persaud, whose belief in the transformative power of entrepreneurship continues to inspire the organisation’s mission today.