Melissa Looby has been appointed to the post of enablement manager at Ignite Bermuda, becoming the first graduate of the entrepreneurial accelerator programme to join its staff.

When Ignite first opened its doors in May 2019, Ms Looby was part of the first cohort of entrepreneurs with her marketing and event management business, The Pulse Group.

Ignite said she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, including coaching, project management, event planning, marketing, and research.

Ms Looby will be responsible for entrepreneurial enablement, leading training sessions, and managing the collaborative community space while helping to foster an inclusive, supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurship in Bermuda.

An Ignite spokeswoman said: “Melissa is focused, driven, and passionate about helping entrepreneurial leaders succeed.”

Ms Looby said: “Ignite became my home away from home from the day I walked through the doors.

“It played a critical role in my confidence and mindset when it came to being an entrepreneur.

“I am excited to sit on the other side now as a part of the Ignite team and look forward to supporting Bermudian entrepreneurs on their individual journeys.”

Since its inception, Ignite said, it has supported more than 500 entrepreneurs, contributing to job creation and diversity in Bermuda.

As its ecosystem expands, the organisation said, it continues to adapt to the evolving needs of Bermuda’s entrepreneurs, backing not just start-ups but also established businesses seeking to scale, expand their teams, or secure funding.

Executive director Sean Reel said: “As our community continues to grow, we are constantly seeking talented individuals to help support entrepreneurs and community leaders.

“Melissa has experienced the programme, built businesses and has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that face Bermuda.”