Guyana Development Bank launches with zero-interest loans up to G$3 million
Applications can be submitted online, while physical help desks are expected to be announced this week.
GEORGETOWN — The Guyana Development Bank began operations on Oct. 5, 2026, offering eligible small and medium-sized businesses access to loans of up to G$3 million with no interest or collateral, according to government announcements.
Applications can be submitted through the bank's online portal, gdb.gov.gy. The government says physical help desks will also be established at selected service centres and commercial banks, with locations expected to be announced this week.
For financing between G$50,000 and G$300,000, applicants are expected to provide basic identification information. Applications above G$300,000 and up to G$3 million require more detail on how the financing will be used, including relevant business proposals or plans.
Guyana Development Bank launched with zero-interest loans of up to G$3 million for eligible businesses.The bank is also intended to provide mentorship, training and technical support. Under a separate co-financing arrangement, qualifying borrowers may be able to access up to an additional G$7 million from traditional lenders at preferential interest rates. That additional financing does not carry the same zero-interest terms as the GDB loans.
The bank's inaugural seven-member board is chaired by Abu Zaman, with Kathy Smith serving as deputy chairperson. Budget 2026 provided an initial G$20 billion allocation for the institution, representing half of its G$40 billion authorised capital.
Individual approval, repayment obligations and final lending terms will depend on the application and applicable bank requirements.
