Entrepreneurs seeking admission to Bermuda’s first entrepreneurial accelerator programme must submit their application by close of business today.

Ignite Bermuda is accepting applications online at www.ignitebermuda.com.

The first cohort of 15 entrepreneurs will begin the six-month programme in May.

Due to the enthusiastic response by Bermuda’s entrepreneurial community, up to 40 additional places will be offered to individuals who can benefit from a “light” version of the programme.

This additional group will be supported through lunch-and-learns and workshops over the same six-month period, Ignite says.

Individuals who are unsuccessful in joining the limited first cohort will be eligible to reapply later in the year for the next cohort of 50, which will kick off in January 2020.

Ignite says applications have been received from a broad cross-section of the community and include a variety of ideas across all sectors. Applicants include people with new ideas for start-ups as well as small business owners looking to scale and grow in markets outside Bermuda.

The Ignite programme is designed to enhance the island’s ecosystem for start-ups and small businesses by providing entrepreneurs with access to a formalised network of mentors and advisers, and developing an investor network to match-up with start-ups.

A two-day boot camp on May 6 and 7 will kick off the first cohort, which features a customised-for-Bermuda curriculum designed to enhance an entrepreneur’s business skills.

Organisers say the programme will teach entrepreneurs about cultivating the right mindset and the most effective behaviours to unlock their entrepreneurial potential.

Cofounded by KPMG and New Venture Holdings, Ignite will be housed in the 4,000-square-foot Ignite Bermuda Hub Space in the Argus Building on Wesley Street, Hamilton, which has been donated by Argus.

Ignite will accept applications from entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey, from idea stage to profitable enterprise.