[ad_1]
Ards and North Down Borough Council’s SHINE Programme successfully concluded in March with a closing event held at Bangor’s Signal Centre.
The SHINE Programme was the principal business support and growth initiative run by the Council. It was a tailored specialist support programme designed to provide micro and small companies with mentoring support to develop and sustain their businesses.
Since 2019, the programme helped to create 170 jobs and delivered more than 3000 hours of mentoring to nearly 200 participants. It included 24 workshops, both in person and online, that provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of different business aspects. In addition, eight businesses were referred to Invest NI, and 39 to other supporting organisations, which contributed to their success.
Through the mentoring and workshops, SHINE participants achieved various types of growth, including a focus on long-term goals, problem-solving, business planning, brand identity, sales and marketing planning, development of skills, time management, and enhanced self-confidence.
The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Karen Douglas, said:
“We are delighted with the impact that SHINE has had on local businesses. The programme has provided invaluable support to micro and small businesses in the Borough, helping them to grow and thrive. The success of the programme is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Economic Development Staff and delivery partner Brilliant Red, and we are proud to have been able to support our local business community in this way.”
The closing event featured guest speaker, Frank Diamond, who represented the All Lives Are Precious (ALPS) charity. His presentation provided valuable insights on how to develop and maintain a healthy workplace environment.
More information about the SHINE Programme can be found at AND Business | Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Economic Development Department
Photo caption: Pictured at the SHINE closing event are Avril Linden (Brilliant Red), Karine McGuckin (Economic Development), Mayor Karen Douglas, Mandy Patrick (MP Consulting) and Owen Byrne (Donard Bikes).
[ad_2]
Source link