Of all the promises the government has made, the most intriguing of them all is the zero-interest bank for small and medium-scale businesses. It is likely to be established in 2026, with a start-up of $200 million in seed money backed by our nation’s oil resources.
What intrigues me about this venture are the many unknowns.
- What criteria would one have to satisfy to qualify for this loan?
- Would there be flexible repayment plans which are only triggered after the first or second year of operation?
- What if the operation flops and the business owner is unable to repay?
These and many other queries are sure to be raised and addressed as the government works with its team of experts to flesh out the model that would be used for this new venture. As the government does its part to create new revenue-generating streams, I want to dedicate today’s Op-Ed to the young people who may see themselves as dreadfully “risk-averse” and/or do not believe that they know enough to run a business.
Let me introduce you to someone who once wore those shoes for more than a decade.
Hi. My name is Kiana Wilburg, and I am the co-owner of In-House Media and Logistics Inc., a company that helps clients connect with their audiences, strengthen their reputation, and thrive in an ever-evolving media landscape.
About 14 years ago, you could say I abhorred the idea of borrowing from banks and dreaded the thought of running a business. It all screamed stress, burnout, fear that I may lack the capital to expand and keep up with the competition; just too many unknowns that could lead to failure.
This fear did not dissipate even though my 12+ years as a journalist allowed me the privilege of speaking with heavyweights in Guyana’s business community and learning how they built their name, brick by brick, including borrowing from banks, friends, family and even strangers to fuel their vision for greatness.
Years later, after working for private and public sector agencies, God and his beautiful sense of humour planted me right before what I feared most—starting a company in February 2025 and doing so with a shrewd, “risk-tolerant” business partner, Fareeza Haniff.
Fast forward to June 2025, the flagship podcast for In-House Media, Starting Point, kicked off at the height of the 2025 General and Regional Elections. That platform allowed Fareeza and I to not only examine Guyana’s development from all vantage points, but it has also enabled critical discussions with the movers and shakers of our local business world.
One of the most recent engagements was with the Managing Director of Bounty Farm Ltd., Mr David Fernandes. During that episode, Mr Fernandes shared that he is part of a consortium leading Guyana’s first major corn and soya project, which is supported by a Republic Bank loan. Once realised, this initiative could save the country US$60 million annually on imports.
The evidence, as has been pellucid more than a decade ago during the height of my journalism years, is that the greats welcome the unknown, they are open to taking risks, and they aren’t afraid to use the bank’s money to reach for greatness.
This is the first message I want to share with people who are of the “risk-averse” mindset. Sometimes, you have to take that leap of faith; bet on yourself; trust your voice and muster the courage to try, fail and try again.
The $200M bank that is coming next year offers a strategic advantage as there will be no interest attached. With your mind now free of worrying about trying to turn a profit while facing interests, you have the peace of mind to think about your vision and develop a clear roadmap with realistic targets. Many institutions within the business community can assist with formulating proposals which transform ideas into actionable plans. It is also my guess that the bank may offer this service too.
Another important point I wish to share pertains to partnerships. In business, riding solo is not the only path to success. As I mentioned earlier, Fareeza and I built a women-led company by harnessing our collective experience, and collaboration has been key to our growth. Partnering with risk-tolerant individuals not only provides a safety net to help you overcome your fears, but it can even broaden your horizon on scaling your success. In essence, when you find the right partner, someone who challenges you, keeps you accountable, and helps amplify your vision, your joint progress is multiplied 10 times over.
What I have also found to be true in business is understanding your personal currency and protecting its worth. You must figure out what you bring to the table that no one else does. And if they do, are you working to do it even better?
For the Fernandes empire, its currency has been multifaceted, with integrity being a major part. Yours could be a commitment to learning or even outstanding customer service. Whatever you decide, do it well and stay consistent.
When the SME bank opens in 2026, it is my sincere hope that many of you have not only overcome being “risk-averse” but you are helping others with your own stories of economic liberation.