The Small Business Bureau (SBB) recently hosted an engaging training session aimed at empowering small businesses to effectively navigate the complexities of the tendering process. Held on Friday, February 13, 2026, in collaboration with the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) and the World Trade Centre Georgetown, this initiative attracted a strong turnout of 115 small business owners eager to leverage government contracting opportunities.
This interactive workshop served as a guiding light for participants, demystifying the often daunting realm of bid document preparation. Entrepreneurs received invaluable insights into key stages of the tendering process, from understanding bid documents to meeting compliance requirements and structuring competitive submissions. The emphasis on a practical, hands-on approach fostered both skills and confidence—essential tools for any business looking to bid for government contracts.
During the event, Mohamed Shazim Ibrahim, the CEO of the SBB, underscored the vital importance of enhancing procurement readiness among small enterprises. “Access to Government contracts can significantly transform small enterprises. By equipping entrepreneurs with the knowledge to prepare compliant and competitive bids, we are expanding their opportunities for growth and long-term sustainability,” he explained. This sentiment resonates with the overarching goal of fostering a robust ecosystem for small businesses, enabling them to thrive in a competitive marketplace.
Participant Robert Forrester shared his thoughts on the training’s impact, noting, “They provided a very comprehensive overview of the critical elements and pitfalls to avoid in the bid preparation process, especially concerning compliance and documentation requirements.” Such testimonials from attendees highlight the session’s effectiveness in equipping small business owners with necessary skills and knowledge.
The initiative aligns seamlessly with the Government’s wider economic agenda, which seeks to bolster small and medium-sized enterprises through targeted training and increased market access. By investing in the capacities of local businesses, the government aims to create an environment conducive to scaling operations, increasing procurement opportunities, generating employment, and contributing meaningfully to Guyana’s sustainable economic transformation.
Through its strategic partnerships, the SBB is making significant strides in enhancing entrepreneurial capability and driving greater participation of small businesses in public procurement. This initiative is a clear testament to the commitment to equip local entrepreneurs with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of government contracting effectively. In doing so, the SBB not only fosters individual business growth but also supports a collective uplift in the economic landscape of the nation.
