Small to medium-sized Guyanese businesses are poised to receive assistance to build their capacities and improve their competitiveness in a range of sectors that serve the oil and gas sector and other industries. This strategic support will be fast-tracked with the establishment of a Centre for Local Business Development in Georgetown by Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd, an affiliate of ExxonMobil Corporation. This move, according to information released by the company, is being done in collaboration with DAI Global, LLC.
The Centre is slated for a July opening following which ExxonMobil will work with DAI Global over a three-year period to transition the Centre to Guyanese management.
According to Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Country Manager Rod Henson, “the Centre for Local Business Development is an investment in the people of Guyana and the future of the country. ExxonMobil is proud to assist in the design and implementation of this important resource.”
He added, “The Centre will play a key role in furthering the capabilities of local businesses with which we are eager to partner.”
The Centre will focus primarily on developing local vendors that serve key sectors of the oil and gas industry, including areas such as safety equipment, marine operations, offshore supply and civil construction. It will also provide mentoring, coaching, and access to financial support.
“Local suppliers are important to the success of ExxonMobil’s operations,” said Henson. “Through the Centre, we hope to strengthen the capabilities of these local companies, as well as improve the competitiveness of Guyana’s industrial base.”
The Centre will be a reliable resource for information on safety, technical standards, procurement opportunities, and project-specific information. ExxonMobil, its contractors, the broader oil and gas industry, and the Government will be able to utilise the Centre for sourcing local vendors and services.