HAMILTON, BERMUDA — November 10, 2025 — The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation (BEDC), in partnership with Global Atlantic, is thrilled to announce the finalists for the 3rd Annual Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition, taking place on Monday, November 17th, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at the Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club.
Held during Global Entrepreneurship Week, this inspiring event will once again shine a spotlight on Bermuda’s most promising 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, the competition continues to empower local innovators, providing the support they need to take their businesses to the next level.
The partnership between BEDC and Global Atlantic reflects a shared commitment to fostering Bermuda’s entrepreneurial spirit and building long-term economic resilience across the island. Now in its third year, the Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition has become a cornerstone of Bermuda’s innovation ecosystem.
“Each year, the Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition reminds us how much entrepreneurial energy and innovation exists across Bermuda,” said Darryl Herrick, President of Global Atlantic Re and Co-Head of Reinsurance. “These finalists are not only developing creative business ideas, but they’re also strengthening the foundation of Bermuda’s economy. We’re proud to continue our partnership with the BEDC to help provide the resources and visibility that empower these entrepreneurs to succeed.”
Erica Smith, Executive Director of BEDC, reflected, “Now in its third year, the Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition continues to be a highlight of Bermuda’s entrepreneurial calendar. It’s about more than just funding—it’s about showcasing our island’s ingenuity and determination. We’re inviting the community to come out, cheer on our finalists, and play an active role in supporting the next generation of Bermudian business leaders.”
This year’s competition will feature nine talented finalists whose ideas span industries and reflect the diversity of Bermuda’s small business landscape.
Youth Category Finalists:
Sydney West (Internship Insights Co.); Chaella Bradshaw Douglas (Pink Sand Beauty); and Cristin Raynor (Angel Studios)
Main Category Finalists:
Antonia Holder (DigiRoo); Ashlyn Young (Tradie Central); Tomika Pacheco (Off Grid RV); Kamel Dickinson (Echelon); Greg Wilson (Food Forest); and Azia Parris (The Sipping Lab)
Each finalist will have five minutes on stage to present their business idea and vision to a panel of judges. The judges, drawn from 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 both in-person attendees and online viewers will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite pitch. This interactive element allows the community to have a direct hand in supporting local entrepreneurship and shaping the next wave of Bermuda’s business success stories.
Last year’s competition proved just how transformative this opportunity can be. Dr. Adriene Berkeley, Founder of PsyNeu and a winner of the 2024 Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition, reflected on her journey: “Winning the pitch competition gave me the clarity and confidence to move forward with NeuPathways, an idea I had carried for many years. It helped me turn potential into progress and begin serving the students I built this programme for.”
The Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition continues to be a powerful example of collaboration and community in action. It represents what can happen when entrepreneurs are given the tools, visibility, and encouragement to pursue their dreams.
This year’s event promises to be an unforgettable evening filled with innovation, inspiration, and island pride. Admission is free, but space is limited. RSVP now at www.gew.bm to secure your seat and be part of this inspiring celebration of Bermuda’s entrepreneurs.
About BEDC
Bermuda Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) is Bermuda’s premier source of free confidential business advice for entrepreneurs. The mission is to serve Bermuda’s local business community with the highest degree of professionalism by providing, authoritative business advice, counsel and loan guarantee financial support. Bermuda Business Starts Here! For more information, visit www.bedc.bm .
About Global Atlantic
Global Atlantic is a leading provider of retirement security and investment solutions with operations in the U.S. and Bermuda. As a wholly-owned subsidiary of KKR (NYSE: KKR), a leading global investment firm, Global Atlantic combines deep insurance expertise with KKR’s powerful investment capabilities. Together, they deliver long-term financial security for millions of individuals and risk-focused, client-driven solutions for institutions. With a broad suite of annuity, preneed life insurance, reinsurance, and investment solutions, Global Atlantic, through its issuing companies, helps people achieve their financial goals with confidence. For more information, please visit www.globalatlantic.com .
Global Atlantic is the marketing name for The Global Atlantic Financial Group LLC and its subsidiaries, including Accordia Life and Annuity Company, Commonwealth Annuity and Life Insurance Company, Forethought Life Insurance Company and Global Atlantic Re Limited. Each subsidiary is responsible for its own financial and contractual obligations. These subsidiaries are not authorized to do business in New York.
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