Council launch new programme to provide advice and support for local businesses

A new programme providing practical advice and support for local businesses was launched by Derry City and Strabane District Council today in the Guildhall, where local enterprises gathered for a special trade event.

Led by Council, the Business Boost Programme is funded by Invest Northern Ireland and the European Regional Development Fund under the EU Investment for Growth & Jobs Programme (2014-2020) and will offer specially tailored support for micro and small enterprises right across the Council area.

The Deputy Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor John Boyle, joined business people from a range of sectors at the Prepare to Trade event, where they had the opportunity to find out more about the new scheme.

Speaking at the launch, the Cllr Boyle encouraged local companies to find out how the programme could assist in their plans for future success.

“Job creation and the growth of the local economy are essential to the success of the North West region and are highlighted as a key priority in the District’s Strategic Growth Plan.

“The Business Boost Programme is one of a number of streams of support now available to local businesses through Council with the backing of our partners, and will greatly assist any small business trying to get off the ground. I would encourage anyone keen to grow and enhance their company to contact Council’s business team to find out more.”

Council’s Business Development Manager, Louise Breslin, said the programme aims to develop a series of sector specific interventions that will maximize opportunities for local companies.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to avail of specialist support that will help them develop their businesses and equip them to become more competitive in indigenous and export markets. The Business Boost Programme will allow us to progress our plans to create sustainable job growth in the Council area as well as provide a valuable service to local entrepreneurs and businesses with high growth potential.”

The BBP will be available to businesses based in the Derry City & Strabane District Council area and is targeted specifically at small/micro enterprises and social enterprises that employ less than 50 people. The aim of the three year programme is the creation of 400 jobs in the council area, with participation from at least 600 businesses and the delivery of a minimum of 1,300 days direct mentoring support to participants. Council will also host a series of informative workshops and networking opportunities as part of the project.

Welcoming the launch of the programme, Invest NI’s North West Regional Manager, Des Gartland, said: “Invest NI has been working closely with Derry City & Strabane District Council to develop the Business Boost Programme which is specifically designed to address the needs of our small business community. Businesses in the North West have the creativity, drive and vision to achieve positive growth and this programme will assist in helping to leverage the strengths of our local business community, open up new business opportunities and encourage job creation in the region.”

Simon Devlin from Full Circle, said: “We are delighted to be working with Council in delivering this programme, which has the potential to transform local businesses through offering practical solutions to what are often common business problems. Business Boost offers the opportunity for companies to gain new perspective, to avail of the expert advice and experience needed to accelerate their plans for growth and identify new opportunities tailored to their business needs.”

To find out more about the programme and how to get involved see www.derrystrabane.com/businessboost or contact Council’s Business Officers: [email protected] and [email protected]; Tel 02871253253 ext. 6980& 6983.