Vision Ahead: The Next Chapter for Down Business Centre

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It has been 6 months since my appointment as CEO of Down Business Centre and I thought it might be timely to share with you my initial thoughts.

Firstly, I have had the opportunity to see the ongoing good work and potential Down Business Centre has for the future. Down Business Centre has the opportunity to be a significant player in terms of representing the interests of the local business community in the East Down region. The Department of the Economy recently has released its new strategy for promoting and developing businesses and in particular the small business sector. Economy Minister Conor Murphy has committed to a plan where everyone shares the benefits of prosperity and that economic development starts with local communities. As a long established and successful local enterprise agency Down Business Centre can play a vital role in building and strengthening local strategic partnerships, working closely in collaboration with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, the business community, education institutions and other stakeholders all in a collective effort to bring greater prosperity to our towns and rural villages.

Secondly, I want to ensure that more local entrepreneurs and businesses are fully aware of what we do and what we have to offer. It is important that businesses know that Down Business Centre is here to support all businesses in their journey whether they are starting out, currently trading or looking to grow and possibly export.  There is a general view that we are just for start ups and we need to work on getting the message out that we are here for ALL types of businesses not just sole traders but limited companies, social enterprises and the voluntary and community sector too.

We have Enterprise Week coming up and will have a number of exciting local events running from 18th to 22nd November which will inspire and encourage businesses in the area. We have many of our own successes locally within our business community and this will help promote the message that the East Down region makes a valuable contribution to the economy and the creation of local employment.

I welcome discussions with any persons, groups or businesses to examine how our business community can thrive in the future.”