Invest NI take Broadband message on the road

Broadband is offering businesses a more efficient way to harness the power of the internet, a spokesperson for Government agency Invest NI has said.

In spreading this message Invest NI is going on the road to small and medium sized enterprises across Northern Ireland.

The second of 16 roadshows planned over the next six months was held recently in Antrim. The roadshows feature short presentations on the benefits of broadband, the various services available, security issues and how Invest NI can help businesses get signed up.

A number of exhibitors including BT, DETI, Aramiska, Digiweb and Bytel, will be at each event to highlight the broadband options available to businesses. These include cable, ADSL, satellite or wireless solutions.

Speaking at the Antrim event Olive Hill from Invest NI’s e-business division said: “Broadband offers a high speed, high capacity communications medium, that can be used to send data, voice and video over long distances at the same time. And because a broadband connection is permanently online and so much faster, it is more efficient than dial-up access.

“The benefits of broadband in helping local companies compete in the global marketplace cannot be overstated. That’s why Invest NI is supporting the broadband drive by providing both advice and financial support to companies.”

Invest NI can offer SMEs up to 40% funding for broadband connection up to a maximum of £5,000. It also has a team of experienced experts who can assist companies with advice on the options available and what’s best for them.

The roadshows are open to the public and the next one in the area takes place in Ballymena on 30 September in the Galgorm Manor Hotel. To reserve a place visit www.investni.com/broadbandevents.

(MB)