From across Lisburn and Castlereagh 40 individuals graduated from Vision to Venture, as part of our Labour Market Partnership programme.
Councillor John Laverty BEM, Regeneration and Growth Chairman presented each graduate with their certificate. He said: “It is fantastic to see so many enthusiastic individuals looking to become self-employed. Entrepreneurs play a role in growing the local economy. Each of our graduates’ business ideas address a market need and help improve their work-life balance.
“In addition to completing the programme, these individuals have set up a 'community'. Through this they will support each other and share knowledge. Twenty-three of our graduates are already trading so will have valuable insights to help the remaining 17 who hope to trade by the end of June.
“Each graduate will now receive a small grant to support their business start-up. We will continue to signpost them to services to aid them in business planning, access funding and training. I wish each of them every success as they undertake their dream job.”
Organisations present at the event included the Bank of Ireland, the South Eastern Regional College and Tangible Consulting. They offered guidance and support to these new business owners.
If you would like more information about the Labour Market Partnership or other council programmes available, please email the Programmes Team at LMP@lisburncastereagh.gov.uk or phone 028 9244 7391.
