Minister Hayward Opens B.U.I.L.D Summit 2026
Minister of Economy and Labour Jason Hayward opened the B.U.I.L.D Summit 2026, highlighting the importance of investment, innovation, and collaboration in shaping Bermuda’s future.
A Government spokesperson said, “Today, the Minister of Economy and Labour, the Hon. Jason Hayward, JP, MP, underscored the importance of investment, innovation, and collaboration in shaping Bermuda’s future as he officially opened the B.U.I.L.D Summit 2026.
“Addressing the audience, Minister Hayward described the two-day event as a critical platform for advancing Bermuda’s urban development and infrastructure priorities while reinforcing the Government’s commitment to sustainable economic growth.
“Held under the theme ‘Invest Bermuda,’ the summit, hosted by the Urban Development Authority and the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC], brings together industry leaders, stakeholders, and policymakers to explore opportunities to revitalise the island’s physical and economic landscape.”
In his remarks, Minister Hayward highlighted the significance of the summit as a call to action for national development and long-term planning, stating, “This summit represents more than just a meeting of minds or a professional gathering. It is a call to action for the sustainable development of our urban centre and a strategic commitment to the revitalisation of Bermuda’s infrastructure”.
He noted that the discussions over the two days will focus on key drivers of growth, including financing, construction innovation, and the delivery of major infrastructure projects. “We will examine various mechanisms of growth, exploring both international and local financing opportunities to identify the capital required to fuel large-scale, sustainable expansion,” he said. “We will challenge ourselves to examine innovation in construction. We will look at alternative methods that can address our housing needs with the efficiency and modern standards our people deserve.”
The spokesperson said, “Minister Hayward emphasised that housing remains a central pillar of Bermuda’s economic and social stability, pointing to the development of a comprehensive Housing Strategy as a national priority.”
“We must ensure that every Bermudian has a place to call home,” he said. “When our families are securely housed, our workers are more productive, our children are more resilient, and our employers can attract the talent necessary to drive innovation.”
The spokesperson said, “Highlighting specific areas of opportunity, the Minister pointed to the North and South Hamilton Economic Empowerment Zones as key sites for future development and investment.”
“These areas are not merely plots of land. They are the frontlines of our economic renewal and the heart of our community’s potential,” he said, noting that this work is aligned with Bermuda’s Economic Development Strategy.
The spokesperson said, “The Minister also stressed the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, noting that achieving the vision for Bermuda’s future will require collective effort and decisive action.”
“Everyone in this room has a vital role to play in the realisation of what I call the New Bermuda,” he said. “Our success will depend on how we prioritise development, embrace change, and move from ideas to tangible, lasting results.”
The spokesperson said, “Encouraging active participation, Minister Hayward urged attendees to use the summit as an opportunity to challenge conventional thinking and build meaningful partnerships.
“Minister Hayward concluded by encouraging everyone attending to engage deeply, challenge traditional thinking, build partnerships, and focus on outcomes that will benefit Bermuda and its people.”
