Local entrepreneurs in Belfast have this week marked the successful conclusion of Cultivate, an innovative programme designed to nurture businesses with a strong focus on both environmental sustainability and social purpose.

Funded by Belfast City Council, the six-month Cultivate initiative supported 13 participants in developing their eco-conscious business ideas through hands-on workshops and expert-led sessions. The programme aimed to help these ventures grow, scale their concepts, and maximise their potential positive impact on local communities and the wider city.

Culminating in a pitch competition sponsored by Herbert Smith Freehills, three businesses were each awarded £2,500 in funding to further advance their ventures. The successful recipients are:

• KitchenSync: An app designed to reduce food waste and encourage effective meal planning.

• Mude Adaptive Clothing: A company providing sustainable and practical clothing solutions for individuals who wear medical devices.

• Agri Navi Tech: A business utilising GPS technology to enhance the safety and monitoring of livestock on farms.

Speaking at the Cultivate finale event, the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, highlighted the alignment of the programme with the city's strategic goals. "Supporting local businesses to thrive, making life easier for all our residents and protecting the environment are all key commitments in the Belfast Agenda – our city's community plan," he said.

Councillor Murray praised the entrepreneurial spirit fostered by the programme. "The Cultivate programme has been a great way to nurture the entrepreneurial talent in our city whose ideas and ventures are crucial in developing our communities, our environment and our future growth. Reducing emissions and improving sustainability are both areas of high business growth and today's event shows how Belfast is leading the way in developing the businesses and solutions of the future."

Throughout the Cultivate programme, participants had the opportunity to learn from leading figures in environmental and social impact. Notable speakers included Alice Thompson (co-founder of Social Bite and The Big Sleepout), Professor Ian Robertson (renowned neuroscientist and author), Mark Pollock (world-renowned speaker and paralysis cure pioneer), and Richard Soton (author and consultant).

Aidan McGeary from Mude Adaptive Clothing, a participant who also secured funding, spoke about the transformative impact of the programme. "Hearing from world-class entrepreneurs and leaders over the past six months has been a game-changing experience for me and for my business," he said. "I've had the opportunity to develop alongside an amazing group of like-minded and purpose-driven business leaders. To win one of the £2,500 prize pots is the icing on the cake."

For more information on the range of free support provided by the council for entrepreneurs and small businesses, visit belfastcity.gov.uk/businessinfo