Scheme gives boost to micro-enterprise sector
A CROSS-border business development programme has been launched with the aim of assisting the growth of the micro-enterprise sector across Northern Ireland and the border counties of the Irish Republic.
Unveiled yesterday at the Glenavon Hotel, Cookstown by the Tradelinks Network, the programme will set out to assist 550 micro businesses on both sides of the border to identify and address barriers to cross-border trade and development.
Using a portfolio of business development and support tools, experienced business advisers will work hand-in-hand with business owners to assist them to become more sustainable and competitive with a view to developing cross border trade opportunities and linkages as well as helping to generate greater added value, earnings and wealth within their local communities.
“This is the second Tradelinks programme delivered by the LEA/CEB network and we hope that it mirrors the successes of the first programme,” said Enterprise NI Chairman, Ken Nelson.
“The quality and the variety of support which we believe Tradelinks offers the micro-enterprise sector is testament to the time, commitment and consideration that has gone into providing a programme which will benefit all those companies participating.”
The programme has received 3m worth of funding from the European Union’s INTERREG IVA Programme to help support the micro enterprise sector. Tradelinks is a joint initiative delivered by Enterprise NI, the network of local Enterprise Agencies and the Border County Enterprise Boards. It is also supported by both governments, through their respective Enterprise departments.
Speaking at yesterday’s launch, Howard Keery, director of the agency which manages the INTERREG Programme, hailed Tradelinks as an excellent example of an initiative that would create direct benefits for micro-enterprises, firms typically comprising one to 10 employees, on a cross-border basis.
“Designed to help overcome many of the challenges faced by business owners, particularly in today’s tough economic landscape, it will enhance their competitiveness by providing the support and assistance they need to grow and develop.”
The Tradelinks Programme will be in operation until June 2012 and is available to any micro enterprise in Northern Ireland or the border counties of the Irish Republic.
More details are available from Local Enterprise Agencies or County Enterprise Boards. Contact details and further information can be obtained at www.tradelinks2.com.
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Wednesday 15 February 2012
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