$25,000 Grants Available For Entrepreneurs
Applications have opened for Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition, which offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to win up to $25,000 each, with a total of $125,000 in grant funds available to this year’s winning entrepreneurs.
A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC], in continued partnership with Global Atlantic, is pleased to announce the fourth annual Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition. This initiative highlights Global Atlantic’s ongoing commitment to supporting economic growth and the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Bermuda.
“Entering its fourth year, the Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition invites Bermuda’s entrepreneurs to present innovative business concepts for the chance to secure critical funding and support. Applications are now open, and finalists will have the opportunity to win up to $25,000 each.
“Applications close on July 17th, 2026. Following the application deadline, submissions will undergo a review process and preliminary rounds to determine finalists who will then pitch during Global Entrepreneurship Week at the Hamilton Princess on Monday, November 16th, 2026.”
Erica Smith, Executive Director of BEDC, stated, “Year after year, the Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition continues to inspire us with the incredible talent and determination of Bermuda’s entrepreneurs.
“Thanks to our partnership with Global Atlantic, we have been able to provide meaningful financial support to local business owners who are making a real difference in our community. As we enter our fourth year, we are more committed than ever to nurturing the next generation of innovators and helping them turn their visions into thriving businesses.”
A spokesperson added, “Through Global Atlantic’s support, up to $125,000 in grant funds will again be available to this year’s winning entrepreneurs, driving job creation and business expansion across Bermuda.
“Last year’s competition produced an outstanding group of winners who have continued to grow and expand their businesses. The 2025 Youth Category winner, Sydney West of Internship Insights Co., continues to engage and prepare Bermuda’s youth for the workforce.
“Last year’s Adult Category winners included Tomika Pacheco of Off Grid RV, who is developing the amenities and services that ensure an eco-friendly luxury RV stay; Antonia Holder of DigiRoo, is working hard to get DigiRoo 2.0 to market and in the hands of our youth; and Greg Wilson of Food Forest, continues to grow the business, educate and advocate for food sustainability in Bermuda.”
“People don’t plan to fail, they just fail to plan. For me it [the competition] was about showing these kids that they could do it. That’s why I brought them up on stage so that they can be exposed to it. Big hats to BEDC & Global Atlantic because you’re opening up opportunities for young, fresh entrepreneurs to actually get into business. Small business is the foundation of every community,” said Greg Wilson, 2025 Adult Category Winner, Food Forest.
A spokesperson added, “”Kamel Dickinson of Echelon, recipient of last year’s People’s Choice Award, has taken a holistic approach to health, wellness, travel and exercise, creating exciting worldly experiences for adventurers.”
“Each year, the Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition leaves us even more inspired by the depth of talent and entrepreneurial energy across Bermuda. It’s incredibly rewarding to see participants delivering innovative ideas that are making a meaningful impact across the island,” said Darryl Herrick, President of Global Atlantic Re and Head of Reinsurance. “We’re proud to partner with the BEDC to help foster that spirit and support local business owners as they build and strengthen the island’s economy.”
A spokesperson added, “If you are a small business owner in Bermuda interested in applying for this year’s competition, please visit the Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition page or www.bedc.bm.”
Woo hoo! Free money!