Inter-American Development Bank (2016). Productivity, Technology and Innovation Survey Guyana: 2013-2014. IDB Open Data. https://doi.org/10.60966/wtm1wgm8

1. English

What is this dataset about?

This file combines firm-level data from the Enterprise Survey 2010 and the PROTEqIN 2014 surveys in Guyana, focusing on technology—how firms behave when adopting innovations and technological changes.

What period and firms are covered?

The data spans the two survey rounds (2010 and 2014), allowing the construction of a pseudo-panel of firms in Guyana.

Who implemented and published this dataset?

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), via its Caribbean Country Department (VPC/CCB), financed the survey; the dataset is hosted on IDB Open Data.

What types of variables are included?

• Firm performance metrics (sales, inputs, outputs)
• Innovation and technology adoption indicators (new products, processes, technical assistance)
• Business environment variables, firm demographics, competition, trade links
• Survey documentation, questionnaires, metadata

How can researchers use this dataset?

• To study how technology in Guyana correlates with firm performance
• To benchmark the adoption of innovation against other Caribbean economies
• To identify firm-level constraints or facilitators of technology uptake

What are the limitations or caveats?

• It is a pseudo-panel, not a true longitudinal panel
• Firms smaller than the sampling threshold (e.g., fewer employees) may not be represented
• Self-reported data may carry measurement error or bias
• Some firms may drop out (attrition) between rounds — affecting representativeness

What is the current state of technology in Guyana?

Guyana’s ICT infrastructure remains uneven. While urban centers like Georgetown have fiber optic coverage and mobile broadband, rural and hinterland communities still face limited access. Surveys show firms rely heavily on cell phones and basic internet connectivity, with fewer adopting advanced digital tools.

How is the ICT sector's growth in Guyana's economy developing?

The ICT sector is growing modestly, driven by demand from the oil and gas, financial services, and retail sectors. However, compared to manufacturing and agriculture, its share of GDP and employment remains small. The sector’s expansion is tied to improvements in connectivity and government-led digital initiatives.

How is the oil and gas industry driving technology adoption in Guyana?

The oil boom has accelerated the adoption of digital systems for logistics, monitoring, and compliance. Firms in related industries report increased use of licensed technologies and quality certifications, reflecting higher standards demanded by international partners.

How do Guyana's internet speeds compare with those of other Caribbean countries?

Guyana lags behind regional peers in average broadband speeds. While countries like Barbados and Trinidad have higher fiber penetration, Guyana’s speeds remain closer to the lower end of the Caribbean average, especially outside Georgetown.

What is the status of 5G rollout and fiber optic infrastructure in Guyana?

5G is not yet widely deployed. Fiber optic expansion is ongoing but concentrated in urban areas. Rural connectivity depends on satellite and mobile broadband, with Starlink emerging as a supplement.

What opportunities do tech startups and entrepreneurs in Guyana face?

Startups benefit from the oil-driven economy and government interest in digital transformation. Areas with potential include fintech, agri-tech, and e-commerce. However, access to venture capital remains limited.

What are Guyana’s government ICT initiatives and digital transformation strategy?

The government has prioritized e-government services, digital ID, and ICT training. Policies aim to improve transparency, reduce bureaucracy, and expand online services, though implementation is gradual.

What are the biggest challenges to technology growth in Guyana?

Key obstacles include: - Limited high-speed internet in rural areas
- High electricity costs are affecting data centers
- Skills gap in advanced ICT fields
- Weak financing options for startups

How does Starlink compare with local ISPs in Guyana for remote connectivity?

Starlink offers faster speeds and wider coverage in remote areas than local ISPs, though it costs more. Local ISPs remain dominant in urban centers due to affordability.

How is the STEM education and coding bootcamps in Guyana?

STEM programs are expanding in secondary schools, with coding bootcamps emerging in Georgetown. However, access outside major cities is limited, reinforcing urban-rural disparities.

Is Guyana a good place for remote tech workers and digital nomads?

Georgetown offers coworking spaces and improved connectivity, making it a viable option for digital nomads. Challenges include inconsistent speeds outside cities and high costs for premium internet.

How active is Guyana's tech industry news and upcoming conferences?

Regional ICT forums occasionally feature Guyana, but the country hosts fewer large-scale tech conferences compared to Trinidad or Jamaica. Local business chambers organize smaller innovation events.

What is the current state of the digital landscape and ICT infrastructure in Guyana?

Digital adoption is rising, but infrastructure gaps persist. Firms report moderate use of websites and email, with fewer leveraging advanced e-commerce or cloud services.

What were the primary technological advancements in Guyana's oil and gas sector?

Advancements include real-time monitoring systems, digital compliance platforms, and integration of international quality standards. These are largely imported technologies adapted to local operations.

How does Guyana's internet penetration rate compare to other CARICOM nations?

Penetration is lower than in Barbados or Trinidad, but higher than in some smaller island states. Mobile broadband is the main driver of access.

What was the impact of the 2020 liberalization of the telecommunications sector in Guyana?

Liberalization increased competition between GTT and Digicel, leading to lower prices and gradual improvements in service quality. However, rural access remains a challenge.

What opportunities exist for tech startups and venture capital in Guyana's emerging market?

Opportunities exist in fintech, agri-tech, and logistics. Venture capital is scarce locally, but diaspora networks and regional funds provide some support.