Co-invest initiative launched to turn community care needs into business opportunities for women

The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has launched a Co-Invest Initiative aimed at expanding affordable childcare and eldercare services across Guyana, while creating entrepreneurial opportunities for women.
Under the programme, the government will partner with individuals and groups interested in establishing childcare and eldercare facilities within their communities, Minister of Human Services and Social Security Vindhya Persaud said.
“We will, as the name suggests, invest with you. This is to provide childcare and eldercare services in your communities — affordable for those who want to use them and convenient so that they can place their children or their seniors in safe spaces,” she said.
The initiative targets the growing demand for accessible care options for working parents, students and families caring for elderly relatives. Applicants with suitable spaces that can be refurbished may qualify for government funding to develop safe, child-friendly environments.
Participants will be able to register via a QR code provided by the ministry.
Persaud said the initiative also aims to empower women through business opportunities, adding that technical assistance, monitoring and free training will be provided.
Persons without formal training will be offered skills development, while those seeking to complete existing qualifications can also access support at no cost.
The minister encouraged prospective participants to assess community needs and consider group applications, describing the programme as a transformative effort to expand care services while promoting employment, entrepreneurship and women’s economic empowerment across all regions.