Four entrepreneurs have each been awarded a $25,000 grant after their success at the Wave of Opportunity Pitch Competition presented by the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation and the Global Atlantic Re foundation.

The competition saw Tia Crockwell of OnSight Optometry, Kisha Tyrrell of Enzuri Beauty & Wellness, and Davida O'Brien of Vida Fusions win the top three prizes, as well as Sabriuna Wilkinson of Nurture Laiche receive the youth entrepreneur award.

The pitch competition is a cornerstone of the partnership between BEDC and the Global Atlantic Re foundation, with this joint effort allocating capital grants totalling up to $150,000 every other year to foster Bermuda's small business sector, generate employment, and energise the local economy.

A People's Choice Award has been introduced to allow one more contestant to secure a $25,000 grant.

The seven entrepreneurs eligible for the award are Antoine Jones, Distinct Collective; Aaron Lugo Jr, Lugo’s Mighty Mower; Najee Musson, 24/7 Lush; Felica DeRoza, Dayrosia; Gavin Carter, Gavin’s Butter; Keisha Allen-Smith, Target Learning; and Jade Templer and Kelly Madeiros, Solstice.

More than 150 people attended the Wave of Opportunity event at Hamilton Princess Hotel and Beach Club to support the 11 entrepreneurs who made their pitch.

Darryl Herrick, president of Global Atlantic Re, said: “We here at Global Atlantic want to congratulate the winners as well as the finalists who participated. These businesses are what drive growth on the island and create the special community we are honoured to be a part of and support.”

Senator Leslie Robinson, the Junior Minister of Economy & Labour and Public Works, said: “I want to emphasise that tonight's event is not just about celebrating the winners; it's about celebrating entrepreneurship, innovation, and the limitless potential within our business community.”

The pitch presentations are on BEDC's YouTube channel with a link in the video description to vote.