One in 25 Guyanese women using HerVenture app to expand businesses

Since its expansion into Guyana in 2021, “HerVenture” – a mobile learning app that provides key tools and resources to successfully enter and thrive in the business world – has, to the date Thursday August 24, 2023, recorded more than 10,000 Guyanese women as users. This equates to more than one woman for every 25 women in the country.

Created by the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, the app was launched in 2018 and was directed towards aiding women who own micro, small, and medium-sized businesses in low- and middle-income countries.
With support from the ExxonMobil Foundation, Guyanese users can, at zero cost, access valuable tools to develop their businesses, including information on launching a business, accessing finance, expanding market access, e-commerce, and mobile money.
“It’s heartening to witness the growing number of women who are taking charge of their entrepreneurial journeys and driving forward women’s empowerment in Guyana,” said founder Cherie Blair in a press release.
Some 88 per cent of users in Guyana reportedly apply their newly-acquired learning to their businesses, and 91 per cent have improved their business performance due to the app, according to the press release.
One user, Medical Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Healthcare International, Dr. Ayesha Wilburg, had wanted to open a clinic that focuses on quality patient care and operates at international standards.
“The HerVenture app has been an invaluable resource in the transition to being an entrepreneur. I am now in a better position to juggle my responsibilities as a businesswoman and medical doctor,” Wilburg had previously told “HerVenture.”
Upasna Mudlier of Denmor Garment Manufacturers Inc. noted that the app was precise, and used terminology that was easy to understand.
“With the digital marketing platform, you learn to systemize certain things in the business. It tremendously increased my clientele,” Mudlier has said.
In addition to ExxonMobil Foundation, “HerVenture” partners with ActionINVEST Caribbean Inc., Guyana Telephone & Telegraph Co. Limited (GTT), Mobile Money Guyana (MMG), and the Human Services and Social Security Ministry.
“This sustained collaboration continues to unlock potential, foster growth, and drive a wave of prosperity and innovation throughout our nation,” Dr. Vishnu Doerga, Chair of ActionINVEST, has said.
Meanwhile, MMG General Manager Bobita Ram commended the tools being put in place to empower Guyanese female entrepreneurs.
“Empowering women is not just a mission; it’s a movement. Every woman should be given the tools to succeed,” Ram has said.