Nine Entrepreneurs Vie For $125K In Grants
The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC] and Global Atlantic have announced the nine finalists for the fourth annual Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition, which will offer $125,000 in total funding, with Nala Carlington, Amon Simons, Marcus Rewan, Zakary Nzabalinda, Camily Lovell, Andrew Smith Jr, Taj-Rae Outerbridge, Mahtorrie Wilkinson, and Zach Stecko all making the finals.
A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC], in collaboration with Global Atlantic, has announced the finalists for the 4th Annual Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition. The event takes place on Monday, November 16, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at the Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club.
“Held during Global Entrepreneurship Week, the competition will once again put a spotlight on Bermuda’s entrepreneurs as they pitch their business ideas live for a share of $125,000 in total funding. With grants of up to $25,000 each, it continues to give local entrepreneurs the backing they need to grow their businesses.
“The collaboration between BEDC and Global Atlantic reflects a shared commitment to Bermuda’s entrepreneurs and to the island’s longer-term economic resilience. In four years it has become a fixture of Bermuda’s Global Entrepreneurship Week.”
“Global Atlantic is proud to call Bermuda home, and supporting the people and businesses that contribute to the island’s future is an important part of our commitment to the community,” said Alberto Autmezguine, Managing Director, President and Chief Financial Officer, Global Atlantic Bermuda.
“Over the past several years, the Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition has given us the opportunity to see firsthand the creativity and ambition of Bermuda’s entrepreneurs. We are proud to continue our collaboration with BEDC and look forward to seeing this year’s finalists bring their ideas to the stage.”
Erica Smith, Executive Director of BEDC, reflected, “Now in its fourth year, the Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition has become one of the highlights of Bermuda’s entrepreneurial calendar. That is due in no small part to Global Atlantic, whose commitment to Bermuda and to Bermudian entrepreneurs runs deep.”
She continued, “The grants change what these entrepreneurs are able to do next, but the stage matters just as much. It gives the island a chance to see the ingenuity and determination behind these businesses. Come out, cheer on our finalists, and play an active role in supporting the next generation of Bermudian business leaders.”
A spokesperson added, “Nine finalists will take the stage this year, three in the Young Adults category and six in the Main category, representing businesses from across a range of industries.
“Young Adults Category Finalists: Nala Carlington, The Daily Grind; Amon Simons, Sweet Saak Bakery; and Marcus Rewan, C.H.U.M [Circular Harvesting Using Matter].
“Main Category Finalists: Zakary Nzabalinda, Physio First: Rehab & Recovery; Camily Lovell, Strange Bird; Andrew Smith Jr., Island Fresh Laundry; Taj-Rae Outerbridge, TKO Locksmith; Mahtorrie Wilkinson, Provisions Homecare; and Zach Stecko, Harbourflow.
“Each finalist will have five minutes on stage to present their business idea and vision to a panel of judges.
“The judges, drawn from Global Atlantic and Bermuda’s business community, will assess each pitch based on innovation, feasibility, and potential for growth. This live format gives the audience an inside look at how Bermuda’s entrepreneurs think, plan, and present their ideas in a competitive setting.
“The evening will also feature the People’s Choice Award, where in-person attendees have the opportunity to vote for their favorite pitch. This gives the community a direct hand in the outcome of the night.”
The impact of the competition’s support is best told by the entrepreneurs who have lived it. Greg Wilson, Founder of Food Forest, won in the main category at the 2025 Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition and reflected on the year since: “The growth of any business is something that comes from patience, purpose and preservation. This grant has accelerated our trajectory in sustainable agriculture in many ways and helped us tremendously, in just a few short years we have become a leader in regenerative sustainable organic farming. Thanks for all your help BEDC and Global Atlantic.”
“Admission is free and seating is limited, so RSVP at www.gew.bm to reserve a seat.”
