One Hundred Businesses Sign Up to Growth Programme

One hundred businesses across the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council area have signed up to the innovative NMD Business Growth Programme, which is driving economic growth through a tailored programme of mentoring, networking and targeted workshop events.

The project is part funded by Invest Northern Ireland (Invest NI) and the European Regional Development Fund under the Investment for Growth and Jobs Northern Ireland (2014-2020) Programme.

One company already receiving practical assistance through the programme is Greenans Products Ltd, based in Castlewellan. The firm designs, manufactures and installs the award winning ‘SmartBunker,’ a versatile plastic multi-purpose storage bunker for small, regular shaped coal, slack, wood pellets and grit salt.

Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Enterprise, Trade and Regeneration Committee, Councillor Roisin Mulgrew said, “Our Council is committed to supporting local businesses and I am pleased that this groundbreaking programme ensures practical support where it is most needed.

“I was delighted to meet with the owner, Niall Greenan from Greenans Products to hear first-hand how NMD Business Growth has benefited his business and opened up a whole new range of opportunities for the future.

“I would encourage all local businesses to register today.”

Mr Greenan made contact with the NMD Business Growth Programme because he wanted expert help on growing his business by developing its social media and marketing strategies as well as its business operations, efficiencies, production and logistics.

The company received over 10 hours of one-to-one mentoring, which was aimed at producing a growth plan – and the outcome has been hugely successful. As a direct result of the programme’s support, Greenans has already begun to win sales in a number of new markets in the farming and equine industries, both locally and in Great Britain. With additional support through the programme, the company now plans to create a new business development position.

Mr Greenan said, “NMD Business Growth has been of huge benefit for me and my business. I have learnt many new skills including how best to market through social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter and the use of Facebook ads. The overall day to day running of the business has also been positively impacted from the guidance we have received. I would highly recommend the programme to other businesses in the Newry, Mourne and Down area.”

Mark Bleakney, Regional Manager of Invest NI said, “We are delighted that the NMD Growth Programme has got off to such a successful start. The new skills developed by small businesses as a result, will generate business growth opportunities and job creation within the district.”

The NMD Business Growth Programme is open to any small business with fewer than 50 employees in the Newry, Mourne and Down district area. Businesses can apply by emailing business@nmandd.org or calling 028 3031 3223.