BEDC Gears Up For GEW UnConference
The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC] is gearing up for the 2023 Global Entrepreneurship Week [GEW] UnConference, which will be taking place from November 16th through the 19th at the Pier Six Complex on Front Street. T
A spokesperson said, “The GEW UnConference is a collection of exciting events and activities housed under one roof for one low price! International guest speakers, pitch competitions, award galas and an artisan market are just some of the exciting opportunities that will be happening this year.
“Launched in 2008, GEW is celebrated worldwide from November 13th to 19th. It has grown to include over 170 host countries and 50,000 partner organizations with millions of activities planned worldwide. Bermuda has participated in GEW since the start and has been recognized globally at the Global Entrepreneurship Congress for hosting the most events per capita – and this year, there will be plenty on offer to get involved in.
“The celebrations of entrepreneurship will kick off on Thursday, November 16th, with the Rocket Pitch Competition. The Rocket Pitch Competition is always an exciting time with entrepreneurs from six categories, including Pitch Pink, Pitch Town, Pitch Tech, Pitch Green, Youth Pitch and Pitch Food & Beverage, battling out to see whose idea will come out on top and take home the $5,000 cash award and a start-up package of services to help them launch their business. Applications are being accepted for the competition until Sunday, October 22nd, by 11:59pm, so don’t miss out on the chance to win start-up capital for your business.
“During the day on Friday, November 17th, youth entrepreneurs aged 14-25 are invited to join us as we bring together Bermuda’s Youngest CEOs for a full day of networking, inspiration, and encouragement. This event aims to bring together Bermuda’s youth entrepreneurs, budding CEOs, and youth interested in entrepreneurship.
“On the evening of Friday, November 17th, entrepreneurs are invited to the Festival of Entrepreneurship: Thrive! Together! This event will gather like-minded entrepreneurs, community leaders and service providers focused on the continual growth and support of Bermuda’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Network with your peers, engage with local service providers that cater to small businesses and entrepreneurs, celebrate your accomplishments and enjoy a night dedicated to Bermuda’s Entrepreneurs.
“For the first time, during the day on Saturday, November 12th, the BEDC will host an Artisan Vendor Market. This event will showcase the heartbeat of our local community, from unique crafts to mouthwatering food, all while promoting the growth and vibrancy of small and medium-sized businesses in Bermuda.
“On Saturday, November 18th, from 6pm to 10pm, the BEDC Business Awards will take place to celebrate Bermuda’s entrepreneurs’ achievements, growth & resilience. This event will feature local businesses that the public has nominated in recognition of their success within the last year. Awards include Business of the Year, Start-up of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, BEDC Client of the Year, and many more!
“Following the success of last year’s event, on Sunday, November 19th, BEDC will be hosting its first full-day conference for men only. The “Next Man Up Men in Entrepreneurship Conference & Brunch” is designed to inspire, inform, and elevate men in the business world with networking, hands-on workshops, a panel discussion and more! The conference will also include international speakers, Ephraim Salaam, a former NFL player turned writer for hit shows such as The Continental and Bel-Air as well as Rob Boyd, VP of Business Development & Content Strategy at Empify, and a host of local speakers.
“This year, BEDC Presents Celebrating [Her]Story: Women’s Brunch & Conference that you don’t want to miss! The Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Conference on November 19th is an event that brings together women to celebrate entrepreneurship, empowerment, and connection. The conference will host international speakers Joyel Crawford, a Certified Professional Career Coach at Crawford Leadership Strategies, and Ashley Fox, CEO & Founder of EMPIFY; joining a diverse group of local speakers. Enjoy a dynamic event with networking opportunities, an entire day conference, breakout sessions, and more. This conference will have you engaged, learning, and entertained.
“Lastly, Cyber Monday Bermuda is an online initiative to encourage residents to Shop Local Online and support the development of local e-commerce businesses in Bermuda. The BEDC invites Bermuda to shop online and #chooseBermuda on November 27th for Cyber Monday 2023.”
Jamillah Lodge, Director of Communication & Development for BEDC and GEW Project Manager, remarked, “We are thrilled for the upcoming Global Entrepreneurship Week, showcasing the entrepreneurial prowess of Bermudians. The success of local entrepreneurs not only brings fresh narratives to life but also stimulates others to embark on their business endeavours. We invite everyone, whether budding entrepreneurs or local business supporters, to engage in the diverse events planned for November and beyond, including events that partners will host. Check out www.gew.bm to see the schedule of partner events.”
The spokesperson said, “GEW Bermuda’s partners and supporters are organizations and people who share the goal of inspiring entrepreneurs to embrace innovation, imagination, and creativity for the greater benefit of Bermuda. They come from the private, government, and even the third sectors. We want to thank all our sponsors and partners for their continued support of Global Entrepreneurship Week Bermuda, and we want to give a special thank you to our major sponsors this year, One Communications and the Economic Development Department.
“This year, grab the GEW UnConference Ticket, your golden key to a wealth of knowledge and experience at a fraction of the cost. Enjoy the early bird pricing of $275 until October 15th, after which the price increases to $325. With this ticket, you get full access to all GEW events and exclusive merchandise only available to UnConference ticket holders. It’s more than just a ticket—it’s your route to expanded networks, insightful educational experiences, and the chance to stay ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of small and medium-sized businesses. Secure your ticket today by visiting www.gew.bm and opening doors to unparalleled opportunities!”
