Eleven Businesses Complete Vendor Academy
The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC] has successfully completed its inaugural Vendor Academy, with 11 businesses and 13 entrepreneurs graduating from the seven-week programme “fully prepared to elevate their presence in Bermuda’s vendor economy.”
A spokesperson said, “Delivered weekly from March 17th to April 28th, 2026, the Vendor Academy was designed to strengthen the fundamentals required to operate successfully in market environments. The programme focused on practical areas including table presentation, pricing strategy, brand identity, and performance evaluation. All 13 participants completed the full programme, equipped with the tools to improve how they present, price, and position their products.
“By the end of the seven weeks, vendors had developed clearer pricing structures, stronger brand identities, and more consistent approaches to customer experience, positioning them to show up more professionally and competitively at every event.
“The following businesses successfully completed the inaugural Vendor Academy:
- Suavve Streetwear – Chioke Hewey
- Pink Crystal Moments – Tamara Smith
- Kreatively Made – Karen Fox-Simmons
- Baskets For You – Debora Caines
- The Sipping Lab – Azia Parris
- Keepsake Krafts – Linda Terry
- Peace by Piece Puzzles – Jahkera Tucker
- Island Girl Papercrafter – Keeva Joell-Benjamin
- Yunique Nails & Body – Yinka Bartley
- Simply Vanilla – Coleen Smith
- JB’s Coastal Creations – Jerry-Dee Richardson & Brittany Haley
“In addition to the training, each graduate received a six-month vending licence and participated in the programme’s final vending market. Through the support of the Ministry of Economy and Labour and the Economic Development Department, each business was also provided with professional branded materials from BrandIt Bermuda, including a tablecloth, banner bug, and branded tent. These resources support vendors in presenting consistently and competitively at markets and pop-up events across the island.”
“This first cohort showed what is possible when entrepreneurs are given practical tools and take ownership of their growth,” said Ondreyah Rochester, MSME Officer at BEDC. “Participants became more intentional in how they price, present, and engage customers. They have built a strong foundation, and we are confident in their ability to apply what they have learned.”
Coleen Smith, Owner of Simply Vanilla Delight & Co., had this to say, “The Vendor Academy was an incredibly valuable experience that sharpened both my strategic thinking and practical skills. It provided a clear framework for navigating vendor relationships while also fostering collaboration and innovation. I’m leaving the program with greater confidence and a stronger foundation to drive meaningful results.”
Jason Hayward, Minister of Economy and Labour, attended the programme’s closing networking event and commended the graduates, “The successful completion of this seven-week Vendor Academy programme reflects a strong investment in our local entrepreneurs. It was a pleasure to attend the networking event and see firsthand the confidence and professionalism of the participants. I was particularly encouraged by the Ministry’s support through high-quality branding collateral, giving each graduate the tools to compete and grow. Initiatives like this strengthen Bermuda’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and create real opportunity for success.”
The spokesperson said, “Graduates will next have the opportunity to put their training into practice in a real market setting at the Love Local Market on Friday, May 15th, 2026, at Pier Six, in partnership with Penrose Partners. The event brings together the Bermuda community to celebrate and support local businesses, and for this cohort, it marks a meaningful first step in applying everything they have worked toward.
“For more information on BEDC programmes, business support services, and upcoming events, visit www.bedc.bm.”
