16/09/2011

Business Entrepreneurial Programme Faces Uncertainty

Sinn Féin Enterprise Spokesperson Phil Flanagan has expressed concern about the long-term impact of the Go For It Tender Award.

Mr Flanagan said he was extremely worried because of the decision not to award a contract to Enterprise NI to deliver the Go for It programme.

Go For It was designed to address the specific needs people face when they choose to start their own business and provided support such as an experienced business advisor, personalised training plans and additional support for women, minority groups and community enterprises.

Speaking after Enterprise NI appeared at this morning's ETI Committee meeting, Mr Flanagan commented: "As someone who has taken part in the Go for It programme in recent years, I can testify first-hand how beneficial the programme is for those trying to start their own business.

"Enterprise NI play a key role in our local social economy, particularly with regards to the promotion of an entrepreneurial spirit amongst people from rural and disadvantaged areas, young people and females, as well as the good work they do in developing cross-border trade and exports out of Ireland.

"I am very concerned at the long term impact that this decision will have, as any new training provider will find it very difficult to get into these hard to reach areas."

(JG/CD)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

30 June 2011
Sowing The Seeds Of Business Success
Sixteen seedling social economy businesses are putting down roots thanks to an enterprise development programme run by Belfast City Council.
22 June 2011
Young Entrepreneurs Get Council Backing
A number of young people from Belfast could soon be starting up their own enterprises after taking part in a business programme, funded by Belfast City Council. The 20 were at the City Hall today for a special awards' ceremony after completing the Enterprise Skills for Youth Programme.
16 November 2015
Newly Refurbished Enterprise Train Opens To Passengers
The first of the newly refurbished Enterprise trains has now opened to passengers. The new train travelling between Belfast and Dublin has been described as a "significant milestone".
29 September 2004
Business park extension to create 90 jobs
Around 90 new jobs are to be created in Co Tyrone thanks to a £1.2 million business park extension. Strabane Enterprise Agency announced the decision to extend its premises at Orchard Road Industrial Estate which will see an additional 22 units added to the complex.
28 January 2004
Exploring Enterprise Programme helps local entrepreneurs
The Exploring Enterprise Programme is a new initiative aiming to help local entrepreneurs launch their own business successfully. The new initiative aims to help those people who aren’t ready to start up a business, but who wish to explore the entire concept of business start up.