The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC] wrapped up a week-long Global Entrepreneurship Week 2025, bringing together local entrepreneurs, creatives, and community members for learning, networking, and celebration under the theme “Together We Build.”
A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC] wrapped up Global Entrepreneurship Week [GEW] 2025 with a full schedule of events that brought together entrepreneurs, creatives, and community members for discussions, learning, and meaningful engagement. Held from November 17 to 23 under the theme “Together We Build,” the week supported collaboration and highlighted the ongoing growth of Bermuda’s entrepreneurial community.
“The week opened with the Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition in partnership with Global Atlantic. Nine entrepreneurs presented their business ideas, with five receiving $25,000 dollar grants. The Hon. Jason Hayward, Minister of Economy and Labour, awarded an additional $5,000 dollars to each of the remaining finalists in recognition of their strong presentations.
“On Tuesday, hundreds of community members visited BEDC headquarters for the Fuel the Future Coffee and Pastries Giveaway. Attendees met with BEDC team members, learned about available business support services, and took part in a fun spin to win prize draws.
“Women’s Entrepreneurship Day on Wednesday featured Fore the Ladies, a networking golf clinic at Port Royal Golf Course. Thirty women entrepreneurs and professionals participated in coaching sessions, light competition, and a shared lunch that encouraged relationship-building.
“Creative entrepreneurship took center stage on Thursday during The Business of Art: A Fireside Chat with actor and entrepreneur Tristan “Mack” Wilds at the Bermuda Society of Arts. The conversation, moderated by Nhuri Bashir of Burnt House Productions, offered practical insight for artists and innovators and drew an audience of more than 50 people.
“Friday’s signature event, Together We Build: Experiential Full Day Conference, welcomed approximately 140 attendees to Grotto Bay Resort. Keynotes were delivered by actor & singer/songwriter Tristan Mack Wilds and breakout food entrepreneur Pinky Cole, owner of Slutty Vegan, with breakout sessions led by more than 25 local entrepreneurs and two international guests. Session topics included digital innovation, funding, leadership, the creator economy, and women’s entrepreneurship. The Business to Business Resource Market included sponsors Cox Hallett Wilkinson, Butterfield, Chameleon Print Solutions, and Brava. The evening closed at the Panorama Lounge with Cocktails with Creators, a networking mixer where entrepreneurs and conference participants were treated to a 360 view of the Island backlit by the awarded LF Wade International Airport.
“Saturday’s Beyond the Plate event, hosted by Bacardi at its headquarters and the 1862 Cocktail Bar, highlighted culinary entrepreneurship. More than 90 guests attended to sample plant-based dishes and hear five local chefs, Pitch it to Pinky including: Doreen Williams James of Wild Herbs N Plants of Bermuda, Earlena Ingham of Natural Mystic Hub, Trevor Johnston of Plant Based Fuel, Jeff Sousa of Sousa’s Spring Rolls, and Kris Furbert of Bermuda Pie Company. A judging panel that included Pinky Cole, Marico Thomas, Christina Hammond-Wilds, Phil Barnett, and Dr. Teneika Eve selected Trevor Johnston for the top award sponsored by BGA. Attendees voted, and Kris Furbert was chosen as the People’s Choice Award winner. Pinky Cole also shared guidance on scaling food businesses into new markets.
“The week closed on Sunday with Entrepreneurial Truths at the Ruth Seaton James Auditorium. More than 130 attendees took part in Spark Sessions led by BEDC directors, designed to support reflection on business development and growth. The evening continued with a Fireside Chat featuring Pinky Cole, moderated by Deshay Caines of the Hustle Her Podcast and Chelsea Warren of BEDC.”
“Global Entrepreneurship Week is our opportunity to highlight the strength and creativity of Bermuda’s entrepreneurs,” said Erica Smith, Executive Director of BEDC. “Each event reflected the value of working together and investing in our business community. We appreciate the support of our partners, sponsors, speakers, and attendees who helped make GEW 2025 a success.”
David Esler, Head of Brava, had this to say about sponsoring GEW this year: “Global Entrepreneurship Week remains one of the most important platforms for inspiring innovation and connecting people with opportunity. Brava chose to support GEW because we believe strong economies are built when entrepreneurs have access to knowledge, networks, technology, and encouragement. This year’s experience reinforced that belief. The conversations and energy showed that the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and growing among MSMEs in Bermuda. Our biggest takeaway is that when we invest in people, we strengthen the future of our region. Brava is proud to walk alongside GEW as we build that future together. Congratulations to the BEDC team and all participants on a successful initiative.”
Maryem Biadillah, Acting Director of the Economic Development Department, said as a GEW sponsor: “The EDD is proud to continue our support of Global Entrepreneurship Week, which celebrates the creativity and drive of Bermuda’s entrepreneurs. Our partnership with the BEDC reflects a shared commitment to fostering innovation, strengthening e-entrepreneurship, and building a resilient, future-ready economy.”
A spokesperson added, “BEDC extends a huge thank you to this year’s major sponsors: Bermuda Tourism Authority, Economic Development Department, Brava, and BGA. Special appreciation also goes to event sponsors Bacardi and Grotto Bay Beach Hotel and Resort, with recognition to contributor CJ Rentals and Productions.
“Additional appreciation goes to supporters Cox Hallett Wilkinson, Butterfield, Driven Society, the Department of Culture, and the Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors.
“BEDC also acknowledges the generosity of community sponsors who supported student attendance on Sunday, including Leggo Bermuda, the Ministry of Education, Heel Sew Quik Group of Companies, Western Stars Sports Club, Baileys Bay Cricket Club, St. David’s Cricket Club, Warwick Workmen’s Club, Electronic Services, Major League Barbershop, The Emperial Group, Fit 4 Life, and Salon Pink.
“For more information on BEDC programs, business support services, and upcoming events, visit www.bedc.bm.”
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