The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation’s Eat, Play, Shop campaign is back for another holiday season, driving money into economic empowerment zone businesses.

Since launching five years ago, Eat, Play, Shop has generated more than $635,000 for local enterprises in economic empowerment zones across the island.

“The most significant spending has consistently come from the retail and personal care sectors, demonstrating the community’s willingness to support a wide range of small enterprises during the holiday season,” the BEDC said.

This year the programme is expected to help generate profit for more than 80 businesses in Hamilton, Sandys and St George.

Shoppers who spend $20 or more at any participating business within these areas between now and December 31 can enter to win one of three gift vouchers: $500 for the grand prize, $300 for first prize and $200 for second prize.

The vouchers can be used at any participating EEZ business. The company where the grand prize-winning purchase is made will also receive a $500 voucher.

As the holiday season approaches, BEDC is encouraging everyone to consider the impact of their spending.

“Shopping in the EEZs is not only a way to find unique products and services but also a meaningful way to support the entrepreneurs who keep Bermuda’s communities vibrant,” the BEDC said.

Donte Hunt, director of micro, small and medium enterprises and the officer responsible for the southeast Hamilton EEZ, shared the campaign’s purpose.

“Eat, Shop, Play is not just about winning prizes,” Mr Hunt said. “It is about intentionally supporting small businesses that form the heart of our neighbourhoods. These businesses provide unique products and services, and every dollar spent helps keep them going.”

BEDC MSME officers Ondreyah Rochester, Dennis Carter and Richard Augustus were proud to continue this campaign.

“It gives our communities a chance to be intentional about how and where they spend,” they said. “When people shop in the EEZs, they help business owners thrive and strengthen local connections. It is a small action that makes a real impact.”

Lornette Furbert, owner and founder of The Pit Stop, is a past winner.

“Being a winner in the Eat, Shop, Play campaign was an unexpected but very appreciated experience for me and for The Pit Stop,” she said.

It reminded her of how supportive the local community is when it comes to small businesses.

“I joined the campaign because I needed more foot traffic, and the BEDC initiative made that possible,” she said. “It showed the community spirit of the festive season and how we all came together.”

To enter, shoppers must upload a photograph or confirmation of their receipt showing a purchase of $20 or more from any participating EEZ business to the online form on BEDC’s website.

The submission form is organised by zone and all valid entries will be included in the prize draw. Winners will be announced on January 5.