Apply For BEDC Student Entrepreneur Program
The BEDC is now accepting applications for its 6th annual Summer Student Entrepreneur Program, offering training, funding, and mentorship to students aged 13 to 23 starting their own businesses.
A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC] is now accepting applications for the 6th annual Summer Student Entrepreneur Program [SSEP]. Celebrating the program’s success over the previous five years, BEDC invites students aged 13 to 23 to join this year’s initiative, which aims to nurture and inspire Bermuda’s emerging entrepreneurs.
“This year’s SSEP starts on Monday, June 30th, and runs through Friday, August 22nd, 2025, with the goal of shaping young Bermudians into the next generation of business innovators. Students will benefit from educational training, a weekly financial stipend, and seed funding to kick-start their business ventures.
“Beyond the two-week training, BEDC’s team will provide ongoing support, helping participants maximize their earnings throughout the summer. The program also includes a competitive edge, encouraging students to aim for the highest revenue, with the top three earning additional financial rewards.”
Deshun Simmons, Asst. Communication & Development Officer & Program Coordinator at BEDC, shares, “Our goal with the SSEP is to do more than provide summer income. We want to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset that prepares students for long-term business success, whether they choose to pursue entrepreneurship full-time or in a side business. The program gives them the foundation and skills to confidently pursue their business ideas and bring them to life.”
The spokesperson said, “Last year, the program showcased a wide variety of businesses, including a clothing brand with tracksuits, shorts, hats, and T-shirts for Bermudians; colorful jewelry designed for neurodivergent and disabled individuals; skincare products with natural ingredients; unisex roll-on fragrances for teens; a tabletop roleplaying game system; and unique resin phone cases with charms. These businesses reflect the innovative ideas of our young entrepreneurs, with most still in operation today.”
Nico Bean, Owner of Flow by Nico, shared his thoughts on the program, “BEDC’s Summer Student Entrepreneur Program showed me what was achievable with my business. Over the two months, I learned the ins and outs of being an entrepreneur, networked with important people, and got my business’ name out to the Bermuda community. BEDC offered amazing opportunities to promote and sell my products, including a sponsored booth at Harbor Nights and a spot on their ‘Mind Your Business’ podcast. Most importantly, I connected with inspiring mentors and was introduced to all the other programs BEDC offers.”
The spokesperson said, “The program’s capacity is limited to fifteen students, and the submission deadline is Sunday, May 18th, 2025, by 11:59 p.m. Selected participants will be notified by June 3rd, 2025. For application details or to learn more, visit www.bedc.bm, email info@bedc.bm, or call 292-5570.”
