Applications for the biggest ever BEDC small business incubator cohort close today.

This is the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation’s fifth Enterprise Bermuda group. Since its inception, it has grown from eight participants to 24, mainly because of the addition of new programme office space in North Hamilton, St George and Sandys.

“This is the chunkiest the programme has ever been,” incubator lead Nikki Fagan said. “The BEDC is really ready to make a big impact and find Bermuda’s next big business.”

Ms Fagan is new to the programme, but is well known in the community for running marketing business Brand Lion Communications.

“I will walk hand in hand with successful applicants,” she said. “Essentially, I am the future CEO's regular business adviser, which is key to creating, tracking, and crushing business goals. My role is in addition to BEDC teachers and mentors.”

The programme is now using an online platform from Accelerator Canada to track the progress of the budding business owners.

There are other business incubators on the island, but Ms Fagan said that the BEDC programme was longer, running for 12 months.

“The other programmes are six to eight months and then you are sent to the wolves,” Ms Fagan said. “I am hoping there will be a plethora of businesses joining the programme. These businesses will help to bring our economy back.”

The programme is free and will be run virtually and in person.

To apply go to bedc.bm or call 292-5570.