'Partnership and collaboration have been key to LEDCOM’s success': CEO shares commitment to enhance economic future of Larne and Ballyclare after year which saw creation of 350 jobs
Leading business support organisation and social enterprise LEDCOM has supported the creation of more than 350 jobs in Co Antrim during the past year, latest figures have revealed.
The organisation’s AGM heard the financial impact of these jobs across both the Antrim and Newtownabbey and Mid and East Antrim Council areas totalled almost £13 million.
According to LEDCOM’s CEO, Ken Nelson MBE, the figures cement the organisation’s reputation as a centre of excellence.
"Partnership and collaboration have been key to LEDCOM’s success over the last four decades, especially this year, given our commitment to various projects helping to strategically drive and enhance the economic future of Larne and Ballyclare,” he said.
The release of the latest statistics culminates what has been a significant year for LEDCOM. The organisation marked its 40th anniversary in the summer and announced plans to refurbish Foundry House in Ballyclare with £300,000 funding support from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.
The reopening of Bank Road Business Park followed in October after a £1 million enhancement due to funding from Danske Bank, the Kilwaughter Foundation and Community Finance Ireland.
Just weeks ago, LEDCOM announced the collaborative launch of the Larne and North West Community Wealth Building Partnerships with joint funding awarded by the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Department for Communities (DfC). This initiative also clinched the Community Wealth Building Award at the recent Social Enterprise NI Awards.
"With a proven track record of successful and sustainable delivery, LEDCOM continues its focus on regional economic growth, aiming to support local communities whilst boosting employment and entrepreneurial opportunities,” Ken continued.
"Throughout the last year, LEDCOM has been at the forefront of a number of projects geared towards enhancing the social and economic fabric of our communities, all of which are vital to driving future growth. Partnerships have been, and will remain, crucial to our future plans to create a region with increased connectivity, enhanced productivity and personal wealth for all.”
The AGM also heard from keynote speaker, Tina McKenzie MBE, UK Policy Chair at the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), who reiterated the essential role that organisations like LEDCOM play in bolstering regional economies.
"LEDCOM’s impact on the Larne and Ballyclare areas simply cannot be understated,” Tina said. “Sitting at the heart of the local economy, LEDCOM is a catalyst and resource for businesses and budding entrepreneurs looking to establish and grow their companies.
"By working with key stakeholders, LEDCOM delivers projects and opportunities that strengthen the economic and social prosperity of the region, helping to boost long-term growth. This is a mission which FSB strongly endorses.”
With a portfolio of state-of-the-art workspaces including Foundry House and the Work Cube facilities in Ballyclare alongside Willowbank Business Park and Bank Road Business Park in Larne, LEDCOM offers a range of business support services and various community-based initiatives.
Reflecting on the impact of collaborative working, Ken added: “Working in partnership over the last 40 years is the cornerstone of our success, and our achievements thus far demonstrate what’s possible when organisations and communities work together with a shared vision.
"By working together, we’re helping to create a stronger, more resilient and prosperous region for future generations and I’m very excited to see the continued impact that we can deliver over the coming years.”