Minister of Economy visits Down Business Centre

/in /by

Minister Archibald Visits Down Business Centre to Hear Vision for Rural Enterprise Growth

Department of Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald visited Down Business Centre this week to meet with staff and board members to hear first-hand about the Centre’s achievements, ongoing challenges, and ambitious plans to support enterprise and inclusive economic growth across the Down District.

Welcomed by Chief Executive Emma Bohill, the Minister was given a comprehensive overview of the Centre’s pivotal role as a regional hub for entrepreneurship. For nearly 35 years, Down Business Centre has been a cornerstone for new and growing businesses, managing 34,000 sq. ft. of workspace across 35 industrial units and 31 offices — all currently at full occupancy.

“We’re delighted to host the Minister today and show how local enterprise support is driving opportunity here,” said Emma Bohill. “From start-up guidance to growth-stage mentoring, our services are designed to meet businesses where they are — and help them move forward.”

Driving Local Impact Through Go Succeed

As a delivery agent for the Go Succeed programme started in November 2023, Down Business Centre has provided targeted enterprise support across the full business lifecycle. Since the programme’s launch, the Centre has support the set up and mentoring of over 380 local businesses, creating an estimated 81 jobs and providing businesses access to grants and business loan funds.

Beyond the numbers, the Centre is building a thriving business community where local people can access decent work, business ownership, and shared prosperity.

Facing Challenges Head-On

During her visit, Minister Archibald heard directly about several key challenges facing the organisation:

  • Ageing buildings requiring investment in modernisation, digital infrastructure, and accessibility
  • Limited land and premises for expanding out-of-town workspace to meet rising demand
  • Lack of employer support incentives for apprenticeships, especially in construction trades

The importance of ensuring rural areas are fully included and visible in future Local Economic Partnership (LEP) investment plans, so that all parts of the region can contribute to and benefit from economic growth

Unlocking Future Opportunity Through the LEP

The Centre sees the newly formed Local Economic Partnership as a major opportunity to align regional strategy with local delivery — provided rural areas remain central to its scope.

“We’re enthusiastic about the potential of the Local Economic Partnership and are delighted to have a seat at the table,” said Ms Bohill. “As an established voice for rural enterprise, Down Business Centre is well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to shaping this new agenda. It’s vital that funding is distributed proportionately across the Down District, recognising the unique strengths and needs of our rural communities. By embedding local insight and business-led thinking into decision-making, the LEP can unlock innovation, strengthen resilience, and ensure inclusive economic growth is shared right across our region.”

The visit concluded with a guided tour of the facility.