Hamilton, Bermuda 20 September 2023 – Gearing up for an extraordinary event, the Global Atlantic Re foundation, in collaboration with the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation (BEDC), is excited to announce “The Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition” scheduled for Thursday, September 28th starting at 6:00pm. Hosted at the Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club in the Princess Ballrooms, this event promises to be a landmark moment for local entrepreneurship.
The pitch competition is an essential part of the multi-year partnership between BEDC and the Global Atlantic Re foundation. With a commitment to disburse capital grants totaling $150,000 every other year, the partnership aims to spur the growth of Bermuda’s small businesses, facilitate job creation, and stimulate the local economy.
“Bermuda is such a special place to live and work, and Global Atlantic Re is committed to doing our part to drive further economic growth and opportunities on the island,” said Darryl Herrick, President of Global Atlantic Re. “The finalists presenting at the Wave of Opportunity event have demonstrated their potential to truly make an impact, and I’m looking forward to learning more about their businesses.”
Erica Smith, Executive Director of the BEDC, had this to say about the upcoming event, “The ‘Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition’ is a momentous occasion that exemplifies the strength and promise of our partnership with the Global Atlantic Re foundation. This event is more than just a competition; it’s a platform for nurturing innovation and fostering growth within our economy.” She continued, “I am excited to see the creative and impactful pitches that will be presented. Partnerships like this are instrumental in spurring the local economy, and serve as a catalyst for the advancement of small and medium-sized businesses in Bermuda.”
Eight outstanding finalists, including three in the youth category, will compete for five awards worth up to $25,000 each. These awards are not only designed to recognize and encourage businesses in various industries and young entrepreneurs between the ages of 13 and 23, but they are also specifically crafted to propel small businesses to the next level of growth.
Adding a unique twist to the event, the People’s Choice Award allows the public to become active participants. After the main pitch contest is over, one finalist who didn’t win still gets another shot at securing up to $25,000, thanks to votes from the public. This feature adds a sense of community involvement to the competition. Stay tuned to the BEDC’s social media for details on how you can vote and help shape the future of entrepreneurship in Bermuda.
The Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition offers an unparalleled chance for local entrepreneurs to showcase their talents, secure funding, and contribute meaningfully to Bermuda’s economic landscape. The BEDC and Global Atlantic Re foundation encourage everyone to come out and support these incredible entrepreneurs!
For more information and to RSVP, please visit www.bedc.bm, email info@bedc.bm, or call 292-5570.
About BEDC
The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) is Bermuda’s source of free, confidential business advice. The mission is to actively assist the development of a strong, well-managed and prosperous local business sector in Bermuda. The key objective of the BEDC remains providing a broad range of business advice, counsel and financial assistance to local businesses in Bermuda.
