Take a step to business success

CALLING all small businesses in Ballymoney, Coleraine, Limavady and Moyle...

Applications are now being accepted for a new and unique small business support programme for companies in the above Council areas.

The programme known as ‘Steps to Success for Small Business’ is focusing on early stage and younger businesses that have progressed beyond the start up phase but perhaps have not yet reached the VAT threshold.

Martin Clark, Economic Development Officer at Coleraine Borough Council, said: “The four Councils are delighted to bring forward this initiative, which we believe to be a prime opportunity for our local small business population – in particular the younger and developing businesses – to grow and prosper. It is a key element of our collective efforts to grow our regional economy and focus support at where it is most needed.”

Councillor Robert McPherson, Chair of the Policy & Development Committee, added: “Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy and we need to support them in any way possible in order that they continue to offer wealth and employment opportunities into the future.”

This growth and development opportunity for local businesses is part-financed by the European Regional Development Fund under the European Sustainable Competitiveness Programme for Northern Ireland.

It is being offered jointly through the four local councils and is managed by small business innovation and development specialists – NORIBIC.

Dr Barney Toal, CEO of programme delivery agents NORIBIC said: “This initiative includes one-to-one mentoring support as a key element. Central to the success of the assistance we have given to hundreds of small companies over the last few years has been the one-to-one onsite mentoring on offer by very experienced mentors. The opportunity to talk to someone who has seen it all before usually proves invaluable.”

The programme will take place until June 2011.

If your business is located within Coleraine, Limavady, Moyle or Ballymoney Council areas and you are interested in this unique opportunity, please contact NORIBIC by ringing 028 7126 4242 or email the programme manager at [email protected]

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