Celebrating Enterprise Week at Down Business Centre
Down Business Centre proudly hosted a week of exciting events to mark Global Entrepreneurship Week 2024 in partnership with Newry and Mourne Enterprise Agency sponsored by Newry, Mourne and Down district council, celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit of our local business community. Packed with a range of activities, Enterprise Week showcased the resources, expertise, and connections available to help businesses thrive.
Here’s a recap of the highlights:
Go Succeed On Tour
The week kicked off with the Go Succeed On Tour, where we brought our Go Succeed programme to local communities in Downpatrick and Newcastle. This was an insightful activity. We got to hear first-hand the challenges faced by businesses, how the Go Succeed programme has helped many businesses, but equally many businesses wanting to know more about the programme and how it could help them. We also had the opportunity to ask business owners about Down Business Centre and how they felt we represent the business community. Interestingly, some hadn’t heard of us, some thought it was Downpatrick based only, and some thought we are part of the council. Others were complimentary to the services and support they received from us. This information is vital to us in shaping how we do things in the future. We really did get valuable insights and actionable takeaways and are interested to learn more about how we can promote Down Business Centre further in the East Down region so that businesses know that we are here for all and that the Go Succeed Programme is available to those looking to start up a business, looking to grow or scale their business.
Fireside Chat with George Lowden
In an exclusive event, attendees were inspired by George Lowden, the visionary founder of Lowden Guitars. During this intimate Fireside Chat, George shared his journey of craftsmanship, innovation, and building a global brand rooted in the down district area. His stories engaged the entrepreneurs and musicians in the audience, leaving them motivated to embrace their own creative ventures.
We were also joined by 3 up and coming stars who were winners of the Sheeran by Lowden guitar competition ran by the lovely Mona Owens. We had Cuan Mc Murray from St Malachy Primary School, Castlewellan, Sam Rice, Down High School, Downpatrick and Padraig O’Higgins St Colemans, Newry.
Business Clinics
Our one-on-one Business Clinics with Michael Morrissey from Morrissey Chartered Accountants, tailored advice to address the unique challenges faced by local business owners. With access to this knowledge and experience, participants received guidance on everything from financial planning to business strategy ensuring they left equipped to overcome obstacles and seize new opportunities in the future.
Inspire Her: Female Entrepreneur Session
Closing the week on a high note, the InspireHer session celebrated the journeys of our remarkable local female entrepreneurs- Catherine Deegan, Doc Elite, Orla Mulholland, Mabels Ice Cream Parlour and Catrina Kielty, Wrap n Roll. Attendees were inspired and motivated by their candid stories of perseverance, determination, and success. This uplifting event highlighted the unique contributions women bring to the entrepreneurial world and encouraged the next generation of female business leaders to dream big and achieve more.
A Week to Remember
Enterprise Week at Down Business Centre reflected our commitment to empowering businesses in the Newry Mourne and Down region. By providing platforms for learning, networking, and inspiration, we continue to strengthen the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our community forward.
We extend our gratitude and thanks to everyone who joined us and to the dedicated team that made this week a success. Stay tuned for upcoming events and initiatives.
