Belfast embarks on 'Start a Business Week'

The Belfast Start a Business Week was launched with a celebration of entrepreneurship event at Belfast City Hall last week.

The invited audience at the event, which was organised by Invest Northern Ireland and supported by Belfast City Council, included those who participated in the ‘Start a Business’ programme and some individuals who registered an interest in setting up a business following the ‘Start a Business’ show held in November.

The audience was treated to a presentation from motivational speaker Watt Nicholl, who urged them to keep aiming high and pursuing their dreams. Deirdre Kelly of People Management Solutions and Adrian McAleese of Celtoi Designs also delivered presentations about their individual journeys to success.

Professor Terri Scott, Managing Director of Clients and Entrepreneurship in Invest NI, congratulated the participants on their enterprising spirit. Professor Scott said: “The ‘Start a Business’ week is part of the ‘Go For It’ campaign, which has caught the attention of the public and has already generated some 8000 enquiries. We’re delighted at the level of response and I would like to personally congratulate all those who have already taken, or are planning to take, the next step to set up in business.”

The Start a Business week from January 22 – 29 incorporates a range of events aimed at encouraging local entrepreneurs to transform their business ideas into a commercial reality.

The events include entrepreneurship masterclasses, workshops on how to start a business, community business clinics, sessions on developing business ideas and special events for young entrepreneurs across Belfast.

Councillor Chris McGimpsey, Chairman of the Economic Development Sub Committee, said: “Belfast City Council’s local economic development plan aims to promote entrepreneurship and competitiveness in the city by supporting business start-ups, promoting innovation and backing winning ideas. The Belfast Start a Business Week aims to ensure that local people who may be planning to establish a business have all the relevant information and advice required. Several organizations involved in economic support are contributing to the content of the programme. It is an excellent example of working in partnership to ensure the most effective delivery of advice and support.”

(KMcA)