The third annual Small Business Expo hosted by the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation has been hailed as a success after more than 200 people attended the event over the course of the day.

Held in the Discovery Hall at CedarBridge Academy, it connected new and established entrepreneurs with industry experts and other like-minded entrepreneurs.

The exposition showcased 20 businesses and service providers that offer essential support to the small business community.

Attendees connected with organisations specialising in a variety of areas, including branding, financial services, technology solutions, and legal support.

“We were thrilled to see so many entrepreneurs and small business owners take advantage of the opportunities presented at this year’s Small Business Expo,” said Ondreyah Rochester, micro, small and medium enterprise officer at BEDC.

“Hosting the event in a central location allowed us to reach a broader audience and provide more businesses with the tools, connections, and insights needed to navigate an evolving business landscape successfully.”

The BEDC said the event featured four panel discussions tailored to help business owners elevate their ventures.

Panel topics included branding and packaging, engaging audiences with impact with strategies for crafting compelling content, Black men in business, and practical insights on leveraging artificial intelligence to streamline operations and support business growth.

Brava Bermuda, formerly One Business, was the main sponsor for the third consecutive year. Additional sponsors included CJ Rentals, Chameleon Print Services, and Barritt’s.

“As the main event sponsor for the BEDC Small Business Expo, we are proud to support the dynamic entrepreneurs driving innovation and growth in our community,” said David Esler, head of business at Brava Bermuda.

“At Brava, we believe in empowering small businesses by connecting them with the tools and technology they need to thrive. It’s inspiring to witness the creativity and determination of local business owners, and we remain committed to providing reliable telecom solutions that help them stay connected.”

Erica Smith, executive director of the BEDC, said: “The Small Business Expo is a vital part of BEDC’s mission to support the growth and sustainability of Bermuda’s small business sector.

“Each year, this event provides business owners with access to expert knowledge, networking opportunities, and essential resources that empower them to thrive. We are proud to see the event grow and impact more entrepreneurs year after year.”