Council encourages companies to ‘invest for growth’

Belfast City Council is encouraging small companies to invest in their future growth and development by signing up to the Investors in People (IIP) programme.

The programme, which recently has been adapted to take account of the particular needs of small businesses, brings together a range of companies to ensure opportunities for peer learning and covers issues such as business planning, people planning, managing performance and managing quality.

The costs of participation in the programme are subsidised by Belfast City Council and the Department for Employment and Learning.

Councillor Chris McGimpsey, Chairman of Belfast City Council’s Economic Development Sub-Committee, said: “Belfast City Council is working to help small businesses in the City Council area to improve their competitiveness. We consider that, by supporting these companies to gain Investors in People accreditation, we will help them create a solid foundation for their future development by making the most of their resources and planning their growth.

“The Investors in People standard is a widely-recognized accolade which demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and quality of service. In a business environment that is growing ever-more difficult, we are convinced that the Investors in People accreditation will give companies a competitive edge.”

Ten Belfast companies, ranging from construction and technology companies to coffee houses and pub chains, already have taken part in the first training session for the new look IIP programme.

Any companies in the Belfast area interested in finding out more about subsidisd IIP training should contact the Council’s Economic Development Unit on 028 9027 0482.

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