Bermuda Economic Development Corporation, in collaboration with the Urban Development Authority, will host the first Bermuda Infrastructure and Development Summit on Thursday.

Under the theme “Breaking Ground: Shaping Bermuda’s Built Future”, the event will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders to explore the challenges and opportunities shaping Bermuda’s physical and economic landscape.

The summit at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute aims to foster meaningful dialogue around critical development issues such as housing, regulatory reform, financing and inclusive growth.

With a full day of panels, keynote presentations and networking opportunities, attendees will gain insights into how Bermuda can create a more resilient, equitable, and economically vibrant built environment.

“The BID summit represents a pivotal step forward in aligning public and private sector efforts to accelerate responsible development throughout Bermuda,” BEDC executive director Erica Smith said.

“By working together, we can identify innovative solutions, unlock financing and breathe new life into our communities, ensuring that development benefits all residents.”

The Urban Development Authority, formerly the Uptown Development Authority, will kick off the summit with a keynote presentation titled: “Why this summit? Why now?”

This opening session will highlight the UDA’s mission to lead redevelopment within Bermuda’s four Economic Empowerment Zones: North East Hamilton, South East Hamilton, Somerset and St George’s.

The UDA aims to catalyse growth in these communities by identifying underutilised assets, encouraging investment and applying creative development tools to support sustainable, inclusive regeneration.

Panel discussions throughout the day will address topics such as overcoming regulatory barriers, affordable housing, redevelopment of dilapidated properties and financing mechanisms to spur economic growth.

The event will also feature a keynote address by Heather Pinnock, the managing director of Lucea Caribbean, a consultancy and advisory firm in Jamaica, promoting sustainable development, climate resilience and conscious living in the Caribbean.