Inspire Women Fall 2019

Inspiring Hope
B Y A L I C I A R E S N I K
Photos Submitted
The best part of my job is the entrepreneurs. They’re
inspirational! That BEDC gets to play a part in their
dreams is more than I can imagine. I hope BEDC
inspires hope for the possibility of what can be.”
—Mrs. Erica Smith, Executive Director, Bermuda Economic Development Corporation
Mrs. Erica Smith is the Executive Director
of the Bermuda Economic Development
Corporation (BEDC). Assuming
the position in 2014, she’s responsible
for overseeing the Corporation’s role
in developing small and medium-sized businesses,
through advice, counsel, and financial assistance.
Educated at Boston University, Howard University,
and the University of Pennsylvania, Mrs. Smith has a
bachelor’s degree in architecture, a master’s degree in
City Planning, a Certificate in Urban Design, a Diploma
in Supervision and Management, and is a Certified
Urban Planner. She’s a Board member of Ignite Bermuda
and of Tomorrow’s Voices – Bermuda Autism
Early Intervention Centre.
A self-professed lifelong learner, Mrs. Smith grew
up wanting to be an architect. “I love spaces, was
fascinated with construction techniques. At Warwick
Academy, I took design and technology instead of
needlework and cooking.” Her love of buildings translates
to her career. “At BEDC, I’m building systems.
There’s usefulness in my architectural background –
when you create spaces you create economic value.”
Mrs. Smith initially joined BEDC in 2009 as the
Director of the Economic Empowerment Zones Agency.
She previously served as the Director of Sustainable
Development at the Cabinet Office and was the Assistant
Director of Planning for the Department of Planning.
“In my role as Director of Sustainable Development
I worked on a project to regenerate the north end of
Hamilton. We looked at holistic systems and creating
balance between social and economic policies.” Mrs.
Smith sits on the World Heritage Site Management
Committee and played a role in getting the world heritage
designation for the Town of St. George’s. “We’re
working towards merging the town’s historical and cultural
background with successful economic ventures.”
BEDC Goals? “I’d like to expand our entrepreneurship
education offerings so people can access it more
readily. Access to capital is a continuous goal. We’re
launching new products – one is a growth micro loan;
the second is utilizing our loan guarantee product
creatively to help entrepreneurs purchase commercial
property; third is growing our Incubator Program. Personally,
I’ve been at BEDC
for 10 years. I’m thinking
about my next adventure.
Before I leave, I want
to share and impart my
knowledge with the next
generation of leaders.”
14 Inspire WOMEN