BEDC Business Awards Set For March 21st
The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC] is set to host the 9th Annual BEDC Business Awards on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm at Grotto Bay Beach Resort.
A spokesperson said, “This annual awards ceremony celebrates the achievements, growth, and resilience of Bermuda’s micro, small, and medium-sized businesses, and includes special recognition for entrepreneurs operating within the Economic Empowerment Zones.
“The evening will bring together business owners, industry leaders, government representatives, and community partners to recognise excellence across Bermuda’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, with a welcome reception, dinner, an awards presentation, and a celebration with a DJ.”
Tahkeesha Welch, Loan Portfolio Management Officer at BEDC and lead organiser of the event, said, “The BEDC Business Awards are about more than recognition. They are about celebrating Bermudian-owned businesses that serve our community, create jobs, and keep our economy moving. Each nomination represents a story of commitment, problem-solving, and growth, and we are proud to spotlight the entrepreneurs who continue to show what is possible through hard work and consistency.”
Maryem Biadillah, Acting Director of the Economic Development Department, said, “The Economic Development Department is proud to continue to sponsor the Innovation and Tech Award. Every year, we look forward to celebrating entrepreneurs who are using technology to solve problems and drive progress. We remain committed to supporting e-entrepreneurship as a pathway to innovation, inclusion, and sustainable economic growth and look forward to meeting the nominees and winners of the 2026 Business Awards.”
The spokesperson said, “The 2026 awards will recognise businesses and individuals across a range of categories. These include Business of the Year, Start-up of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, and Vendor of the Year. Additional categories include Customer Service Award, People’s Choice Award, Most Enterprising Young Entrepreneur, Family Business of the Year, Economic Empowerment Zone Business of the Year, BEDC Client of the Year, and the Innovation and Tech Award.”
Dr. Carika Weldon, Founder & CEO of CariGenetics, had this to say about winning the 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year Award, “Being honored with the 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year Award was a huge shock to me and the CariGenetics team. This is not because we did not think we deserved it but because sometimes it’s easier to see how far you have to go rather than how far you have already come. Winning the award reminded us just how much our work had paid off and allowed us to enjoy the accomplishment that comes with having a new idea and bringing it to fruition. Basking in a moment of celebration is just as important as tackling the problems that come with starting a business.”
She continued, “I am grateful to be the only person to hold 3 prestigious Bermuda awards in succession: Woman of the Year [2022], Bermudian of the Year [2023] and Entrepreneur of the Year [2024]. The impact of this Entrepreneur award reminded me and gave hope to others that one is not limited by the expectations of others and that you can truly chart your own path if you chase your dreams.”
The spokesperson said, “Members of the public are encouraged to submit nominations for businesses they believe demonstrate exceptional service, strong growth, innovation, and overall excellence. All nominees must be Bermudian or Bermudian-owned businesses, and nominations must meet the outlined criteria to be considered. Nominations close on February 15, 2026.
“The event is also supported by Pitt & Co., whose sponsorship will help enhance the overall guest experience throughout the evening, including the welcome reception.
“Tickets for the 9th Annual BEDC Business Awards are available for purchase. Early bird tickets are priced at $75 until February 28, 2026, after which tickets will be $95. A limited number of table packages are also available.
“The BEDC Business Awards continue to serve as a platform to celebrate local success stories, strengthen connections across the business community, and reinforce BEDC’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship at every stage.
“For more information, to submit a nomination, or to purchase tickets, please visit this link, email info@bedc.bm, or call 292-5570.”
