More than two-thirds of Bermuda’s small businesses are run by women entrepreneurs, according to Bermuda Economic Development (BEDC) figures.

The figures were highlighted by Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy at the end of Global Entrepreneurship Week in Bermuda, which included an awards ceremony to honour 54 people who have started their own businesses and successfully completed training courses run by the BEDC or Government.

Sen Fahy said: “These 54 have shown their commitment and dedication to make their established or soon-to-come businesses the best it can be and for that we are honouring them with a certificate of achievement.”

He added: “While it is a well-known fact that the BEDC supports businesses through accessing financial products, the BEDC also has an active annual educational programme offering workshops and seminars on various topics of relevancy to businesses to help existing businesses sharpen their saw, new start-ups to position themselves for success and those that have held a business idea feel prepared enough to be able to jump into the life of an entrepreneur.”

Mr Fahy added that the BEDC would continue to offer training and market expertise to help business owners towards success.

Mr Fahy also attended a reception hosted by US Consul General Bob Settje last week to celebrate Women’s Entrepreneurship Day.

He said: “In many countries around the world, women remain an untapped economic potential. According to the International Labour Organisation, there are 812 million women living in developing countries with the potential to contribute more fully to their economies.

“Furthermore, there is a direct correlation between the policies in place to support women, the opportunities available to women and women’s success in business.”

And he encouraged women entrepreneurs in Bermuda to join a new Women’s Entrepreneurship Day ambassador programme designed to promote women business pioneers.

Sen Fahy added: “Women’s Entrepreneurship Day was our opportunity to acknowledge Bermuda’s female entrepreneurs and their significant contributions to growing and sustaining Bermuda’s economy through their businesses and entrepreneurial activities.”

Junior Minister of Home Affairs Sylvan Richards attended the Celebration of Entrepreneurship and Innovation event, held last Thursday, which included technology innovation awards and a “Rocket Pitch” competition, where young Bermudians delivered a seven-minute pitch to win seed money for their business ideas.

Mr Richards said: “These entrepreneurs reignite our faith that Bermuda has what it takes to reinvigorate our economy.”

And he congratulated Bermudian businessmen Connor Burns and EJ Burrows, whose hi-tech Bermuda Aerial Media company won a major international award at a competition in Greece.

Mr Richards said: “This win is confirmation that Bermudians can compete and win in any jurisdiction.”