Demerara Bank Limited today announced the 10 winners of its 2025–2026 Innovation Tank Entrepreneurship Programme.

The programme, which was launched in September 2025 as part of the Bank’s G$10 million Corporate Social Responsibility commitment, was created to support early-stage businesses and startups by providing non-repayable grant funding, mentorship, and practical business development support.

Guided by the programme’s ethos “Dream. Build. Lead.”, the initiative aims to help entrepreneurs transform promising ideas into sustainable ventures capable of contributing to Guyana’s growing economy.

The Bank said the response to the programme exceeded expectations, noting that more than 200 entrepreneurs from across Guyana submitted applications, presenting ideas aimed at solving problems, creating opportunities, and building new businesses.

Following the initial phase, 23 entrepreneurs were shortlisted and invited to participate in the programme’s development phase.

The judging panel selected 10 ventures whose ideas demonstrated strong potential for growth and impact. Each winner will receive grant funding of G$1 million, along with continued mentorship, guidance, and opportunities to connect with networks that can help support the growth of their businesses.

“We were truly impressed by the level of creativity, preparation, and determination displayed by the participants,” the Bank noted. “The ideas presented were thoughtful, innovative, and reflective of a new generation of entrepreneurs who are eager to contribute meaningfully to Guyana’s development,” the Bank said in a statement.

The Bank said the winners were chosen from across various business ideas.

The winners announced by the Bank are Ruth Pendleton – Divine Preserves: Expanding production and market reach for traditional Guyanese condiments and preserves, Da Costa Aboagye – ProElevate Sports Agency: Developing structured pathways for young footballers to access local and international opportunities, Nadeen Dejonge – Agri Organics & Solutions: Establishing specialized growing systems for year-round celery production, and Winton Camacho – Aqua Greens Guyana: Expanding hydroponic vegetable production for sustainable, pesticide-free supply.

Further, the Bank announced, Kevin Higgins – Farm For Christ: Growing organic crop production to strengthen food security and community outreach, Kayteram Prasaud – Legacy Shine Automotive: Acquiring professional detailing equipment to offer premium vehicle care services, Andre Sargeant – Selector Andre Entertainment: Expanding music production and recording capabilities for local artists, Delon Simpson – Kukki Agriculture: Introducing tambaqui fish alongside tilapia to boost protein supply and local food security, Ann Marie Machado – Auto Climate Solutions: Expanding mobile automotive AC services for faster, on-site diagnostics and Sherman Gonsalves – G. Reclaim, Recycle & Construction: Transforming coconut waste into high-quality charcoal to create a sustainable, environmentally friendly energy resource, as other winners of the pitch.

The Bank said the judges evaluated the pitches based on Clarity of Business Concept & Value Proposition, Innovation & Differentiation, Market Opportunity & Demand, Business Model & Revenue Strategy, Growth & Scalability Potential, Financial Understanding & Investment Readiness, Risk Awareness & Mitigation, Founder Capability & Leadership, Social & Community Impact, and Environmental Sustainability.

“Demerara Bank views the Innovation Tank as more than a competition. It represents a long-term commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and encouraging the development of small businesses that can grow, create employment, and contribute to a stronger and more diverse economy,” the Bank noted.

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