The 6th Annual Cayman Islands Business Design Competition Opens for Submissions

Enterprise Cayman has announced that the 6th annual Cayman Islands Business Design Competition is now open for submissions. Creative individuals, businesses, and entrepreneurs are invited to take part in the high-impact competition to help launch their next innovative business idea.

Produced by Enterprise Cayman and sponsored by Cayman Enterprise City (CEC), the Cayman Islands Business Design Competition is designed to support Caymanians and residents of the Cayman Islands in kick-starting new business products, services, and/or features quickly, while minimising the risks of bringing new ideas to market. The competition provides entrepreneurs and innovators access to professional support networks, a curated series of workshops, and significant networking opportunities.

The competition is open to residents of the Cayman Islands aged 18 and older, and thanks to the support from CEC, is completely free to enter. “Now in its sixth year, the Business Design Competition is a launchpad for Caymanians and residents to test ideas, learn fast, and lower the risk of bringing something new to market. Each cohort proves how much talent lives here,” said Alyssa Manderson, Programme Manager at Enterprise Cayman. “In 2026 we’re doubling down on hands-on workshops, mentorship, and wraparound support so teams can turn promising concepts into pitch-ready ventures. So, if you’ve been sitting on an idea, this is your nudge. Bring it, test it, and build it with us.”

Participants are invited to compete as individuals, or in teams of up to four members. Ten finalists will be selected in late February 2026 and will receive tailored guidance to develop their ideas with the help of professional advisors and a network of seasoned entrepreneurs. The competition begins with three hands-on “Design Days,” where participants take part in interactive workshops to build essential entrepreneurial skills. These practical sessions pave the way for the “Pitch Day” finale when competitors take the stage to present their projects to a live audience and a panel of expert judges. Teams will be competing for cash prizes up to USD $18,000, sponsored wraparound business services valued up to USD $10,000, and five competition awards including the “Project of the Year Award,” the “Community Impact Award,” the “Innovation Award,” the “Sustainability Award,” and the “People’s Choice Award.”

StateMate by Bahadur Lal took home the 2025 Project of the Year Award. “I’m so thankful to Enterprise Cayman for producing the Business Design Competition,” said Bahadur Lal. “Going through this process has taught me that if you apply yourself to anything, a lot is possible.”

Applications for the 2026 Cayman Islands Business Design Competition close on 31 January 2026. Members of the public are invited to attend an online information session on Wednesday, 21 January 2026 at 6:00 pm. For competition details and to apply, visit https://www.enterprisecayman.ky/business-design-competition.