Bermudians took to digital finance last night after an airdrop to their new digital wallets — money that they were able to use with local vendors invited to Pier 6 for the special occasion of a Digital Payments Market.

Inclement weather forced the Digital Finance Forum Community Day workshop and airdrop into last night. The Digital Payments Market for the air drop recipients was re-scheduled for today 4pm to 9pm, although last night’s training excited those attending to take to vendors immediately.

The event comes at the end of the Bermuda Digital Finance Forum which brought some of the leaders in the industry to the island this week.

Local businesses were able to apply earlier in the month for vendor spaces at the Front Street location.

The Government provided complimentary tickets for Bermudians to attend the workshop and market and receive up to $100 in digital assets to spend on-site, helping drive participation while giving businesses hands-on experience accepting digital payments.

Last night and tonight the event scheduled live entertainment at a Harbour Nights-style community event. About 35 vendors were expected to showcase their products and services while gaining practical experience accepting digital payments.

A government statement said the event was designed to help businesses explore payment options that can reduce costs, improve efficiency, and expand customer access.

It said the event would help small businesses “experience practical digital payments tools that can save money, improve efficiency, and create new opportunities for growth”.

Vendors had been invited to prepare for the event through onboarding sessions hosted at the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation offices.

The sessions were designed to introduce the benefits of digital payments, help vendors set up digital wallets, and provide support so they can participate confidently in the market.

The statement added: “The initiative forms part of the Government of Bermuda’s broader commitment to digital innovation, financial inclusion, and ensuring local businesses are equipped to participate in the future of finance.”