A second group of budding entrepreneurs enrolled in a special course have graduated.

The group, part of the Ice House programme, got their certificates last week.

Raymond Lambert, of the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation and programme co-facilitator, said: “We are pleased to be able to deliver this internationally certified programme locally to help future entrepreneurs understand the fundamental concepts that help guide successful entrepreneurs.”

The next course, to be held at the Department of Workforce Development in Hamilton’s Parliament Street, starts on September 27. It is held from 6pm to 8.15pm with subsequent sessions every Tuesday until November 15.

The eight-week programme is designed to help businesspeople create new opportunities and give them the skills to succeed.

Jahnika Alves, co-owner of glass firm Clear Choice, said: “Ice House helped focus me and create a clear path forward on a new business idea I have been considering.

“It was great to connect with other entrepreneurs on a weekly basis. Great course — I wish it was longer.”

The Bermuda programme was set up with the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and the Entrepreneurial Learning Initiative and more than 30 people have taken part.

Course graduate Colina Outerbridge said: “The programme has helped me to look at my ideas and explore things in a new light and way of thinking.

“It changed my mindset to start thinking like an entrepreneur and allowed me to overcome fear and realise this is something I can do.”

The course is based on the life experiences of Pulitzer prize nominee Clifton Taulbert and the influence of the entrepreneurial Uncle Cleve.

The next course, which includes all books and materials, as well as access to an online learning portal, costs $275 and is limited to a maximum of 20 students.

The new graduated students are Dean Fox, Derek Smith, Ray Jones, Vanell Ingham, Andrew Fox, Adam Gauntlet, Carol Ann Simmons-Carey, Tanisha Stevens, Hattie Armstrong, Mike Bengson and Kyjuan Smith.

To register, e-mail info@bedc.bm of phone 292 5570. More information on the course can be found at www.bedc.bm