Applications are open for the eighth cohort of Ignite Bermuda’s award-winning entrepreneurial accelerator programme.

Entrepreneurs and community leaders are invited to apply online for the free programme, which kicks off with a two-day boot camp on April 17 and 18.

The application deadline is February 2.

For the first time, Ignite is collaborating with the Bermuda Ocean Prosperity Programme and the Bermuda Health Council to encourage entrepreneurs to apply who are innovating in the blue economy and healthcare sectors.

Ignite said the term “blue economy” refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods and increased jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.

Bermuda’s Blue Economy Strategy aims to facilitate sustainable fisheries, expand sustainable marine tourism, accelerate the clean energy transition and increase blue investment and blue technologies on the island.

Ignite said the Bermuda Health Council aims to attract entrepreneurs with solutions to non-communicable chronic diseases, chronic mental health conditions and Bermuda’s ageing population.

Ignite will hold an open house next Wednesday (January 24) at the organisation’s hub on Wesley Street in Hamilton. The event begins at 5.30pm.

An Ignite spokeswoman said: “Attendees will be able to see first-hand what Ignite has to offer, meet the team, members from the Bermuda Health Council and BOPP and Ignite alumni.”

Since its inception in May 2019, Ignite said, it has supported close to 500 entrepreneurs as it seeks to increase jobs and diversity in Bermuda.

The organisation said successful applicants to the core Ignite programme will gain access to a state-of-the-art coworking space, informational workshops, one-to-one enablement sessions and mentorship opportunities.