Lisburn City Council launches ‘Graduate Into Business’ programme

Unique to the Lisburn City Council area, the programme seeks to assist graduates from a variety of disciplines to become self-employed individuals. Support is also available to existing graduate entrepreneurs who want to grow their business. Alderman Dillon, Chair of Lisburn City Council Economic Development Committee launched the new wave of the programme at the recently established Studio premises of Ashleigh Carson Photography, in Hillsborough.

Speaking at the launch Mr Dillon said: “I find it encouraging seeing graduates making new opportunities for themselves through self-employment. With limited career options through the existing jobs market, the Graduate Into Business Programme offers an alternative career path, which in itself can be rewarding and challenging. May I wish those newly established businesses every success with their venture and we look forward to seeing more graduates take up the offer of support through this very successful programme.”

The Graduate Into Business programme which is delivered by Lisburn Enterprise Organisation, offers a tailored support package of business mentoring based on the graduates individual’s needs. In addition, every year graduates get the opportunity to participate in ‘Fly or Die’, a Dragons’ Den style competition with a prize fund of £1000.

The programme is made available through joint funding by Lisburn City Council and the EU Sustainable Competitiveness Programme NI 2007 – 2013.

If you are a graduate who would like to take part on the programme, please log on to www.lisburngraduateintobusiness.co.uk or call Lisburn Enterprise Organisation on 02892 661160 for more information.