Entrepreneurs To Inspire At Business Start-Up Show

Aspiring entrepreneurs are set to hear from two of Northern Ireland's most successful business representatives next week.

The free event, hosted by best-selling business author Lara Morgan, will give start-ups the chance to pick the brains of the Managing Director of popular Mexican fast food chain Boojum and founder of BPerfect, a global cosmetics brand created in Northern Ireland.

As well as inspirational speakers, the exhibition-style show will include information zones in key business areas and one-to-one business advice clinics; a 'one-stop-shop' offering inspiration, information and guidance on everything entrepreneurs need to know to start, maintain and grow a successful business.

Supported by Belfast City Council, the Belfast Start-Up Show is aimed at pre-start, early-start and growing businesses.

Local entrepreneurs featuring in the line up include Brendan McDowell, founder of BPerfect Cosmetics, who started the BPerfect empire selling from a stall in the Kennedy Centre in west Belfast. Since then, he has created 20 unique beauty products and is now recognised on a global level.

Brendan will be joined on stage by David Maxwell, now the MD of Mexican fast casual food brand Boojum which, under his leadership, has grown from five locations and 120 staff to what will soon be 18 locations with 500 staff. Both will share their entrepreneurial journeys and the lessons they have learned along the way.

Speaking at the event launch, Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor John Finucane said: "We've made a commitment in The Belfast Agenda to foster business growth in the city – so we support early-stage and growing businesses with a range of tailored programmes, initiatives and events. We really value the contribution that entrepreneurs and businesses make to Belfast and I'm delighted to see the inspirational line up that's in place for the Belfast Start-Up Show. I'd encourage both budding entrepreneurs and established enterprises to attend this important free event – you'll gain valuable advice, tips and guidance on starting-out or taking your business to the next level."

The event is also being supported by Pacem Accounting & Tax Advisory. Pacem's Elizabeth Crossan explained: "Supporting small businesses is at the core of what we do, and their activity is a fundamental part of the Northern Ireland economy. Showcasing exemplars and information on available support is a key element of helping entrepreneurs grow their ventures. Pacem is pleased to support this event, and as a company, we are committed to contributing to a vibrant, entrepreneurial culture in Northern Ireland."

The free Belfast Start-Up Show will be held at the Clayton Hotel on Wednesday 20 November from 2.30pm-6.30pm, as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week.

Firms wishing to reserve seats can do so online. For more information call Podiem on 028 9076 1030 or email jessica.cullen@podiem.com.

The full programme of Global Entrepreneurship Week events is available here.



(JG/CM)