America’s Cup Bermuda has created a working group specifically to guide local business owners and entrepreneurs to the best opportunities available for the 35th America’s Cup.

In addition to creating the group, there will also be information sessions on specific topics relating to AC35, beginning February 23.

ACBDA’s Local Business Connect group represents Bermuda’s business agencies. The partnership will maximise the opportunities available to the local business community.

The Local Business Connect working group is a partnership of Bermuda’s business agencies, including: Erica Smith, Bermuda Economic Development Corporation; Kendaree Burgess, Bermuda Chamber of Commerce; Pat Phillip-Fairn, Bermuda Tourism Authority; Danilee Trott, Corporation of Hamilton; Courtney Trott, Corporation of St George; Kristin White, Hub 1 Cultural Tourism; Joanna Cranfield, Wedco; Denise Riviere, ACBDA

Each information session will cover specific and varied areas of business, ranging from vendor opportunities to marine services, land and water transportation services and location-specific services.

“The cross-agency approach ensures that all sectors are involved,” said Riviere, the Local Business Connect Working Group’s chairwoman. “By working in collaboration we can ensure that local business people have access to maximum benefit of AC35.

We look forward to helping local businesses grow and to meet the extra demand for services. Businesses will benefit by putting in the hard work and long hours. This summer is going to be exciting and lucrative. This is our moment to shine!”

Mike Winfield, the chief executive officer of ACBDA, said: “We’re looking forward to delivering a quality experience to share with the rest of the world and it is my belief that through this working group, led by Denise Riviere, that more local businesses will expand, stretch themselves to rise to the challenge and will develop long-lasting skills and experience for their future economic benefit.”

Grant Gibbons, Minister of Economic Development, added: “These sessions will provide a good chance to maximise opportunities for local business. I would encourage small businesses to reach out to the ACBDA to find out how they can become involved in the 35th America’s Cup and contribute towards the economic activity.”

Schedule of meetings

Location: St Paul’s AME Hall

Marine Services Information Session

Thursday, February 23, 6pm to 9pm

Island-wide Vending Information Session

Tuesday, February 28, 6pm to 9pm

Land & Water Transportation Information Session

Wednesday, March 1, 6pm to 8:30.

Entertainment Information Session

Thursday, March 2, 6pm to 8:30pm

Location: Willowbank Hotel & Resort Conference Room

West FOCUS Business Opportunities: To discuss potential opportunities located in the West.

Monday, March 6, 6pm to 8pm

Location: World Heritage Centre, St George

East FOCUS Business Opportunities: To discuss potential opportunities located in the East.

Tuesday, March 7, 6pm to 8:30pm

For more information, e-mail Denise Riviere at: localbizopps@acbda.bm