The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation has invited residents to join them in celebrating the island’s micro, small and medium-sized enterprises on the occasion of International Micro, Small & Medium Sized Enterprise Day on Sunday.

The BEDC said the objective of the day is to recognise the importance of MSME’s in achieving sustainable development goals and in promoting innovation, creativity, and sustainable work for all.

As micro, small, and medium sized enterprises begin to emerge stronger from the aftermath of Covid-19, the BEDC said it celebrates the pivotal role that these resilient entrepreneurs play in strengthening the local and global economy, adding that MSME’s play a vital role in stimulating economic growth and providing employment for vulnerable groups in all communities.

Jamillah Lodge, director of communication and development at BEDC, said: “The pandemic has created an impossible situation for many of these businesses, however we have also watched many pivot, and use innovation to their advantage.”

She added: “Support and community engagement is what these businesses need right now and we hope that the public will continue to shop and support Bermuda’s micro, small and medium sized businesses.”

The BEDC said support of local MSME’s can be manifested in a variety of ways, including: shop locally online and in person; commit to doing one small thing for a favoured small business each week, whether it’s a purchase or a shout-out; buy gift cards; eat out or order take-out; tip generously; buy merchandise; and shop now for later.

Ray Lambert, director of micro, small and medium enterprises at BEDC, said: “MSME Day was created to shine a light on and bring awareness to small businesses that together make a huge impact on the economy.

“These businesses are sometimes overlooked because of their size but they are the businesses at the heart of the community.

“They are the businesses that are enriched with the culture of Bermuda, the smiling faces of local employees and the hard work or dedicated owners.

“It is because of this that they should be celebrated; not just on MSME Day but every day.”

Dennis Carter, junior MSME officer at BEDC, added: “We are all facing challenging times right now, especially small business owners.

“We hope that this initiative will encourage the public to shop local, learn about businesses that they may have never visited, and spread awareness on the importance of supporting our MSME’s.”