Entrepreneurs bring vibrancy to Belfast economy

Belfast City Council’s sharp business edge will help to create a new generation of entrepreneurs needed to bring vibrancy and zest to Northern Ireland’s local economy the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Sir Reg Empey has said.

Speaking at the launch of Belfast Entrepreneurship Week, which runs from 27-31 May, Sir Reg said the event was immensely important initiative, which would nurture home grown business talent by exposing people to the concept of entrepreneurship.

“Enterprise, by definition, is to be ready to embark on new ventures and to be innovative,” the Minister said.

“What we want is to translate this enterprising skill into business. I believe one of the best ways of making this happen is for people to see the success that others have achieved, by hearing the message from the business owners directly.

“This is a conscious effort on the part of the Council and its partners to boost our pool of entrepreneurs, the talented people who through business start-up and self-employment can inject a new economic dynamism into Northern Ireland.”

The event, which is part of a European Commission-backed programme to promote enterprise, in Belfast City Hall includes a two-day ‘Open for Business’ showcase of entrepreneurship and a series of activities at local enterprise agencies throughout the city. The initiative is being supported by Invest Northern Ireland.

“Initiatives such as Belfast Entrepreneurship Week fit perfectly the new economic framework being developed by my Department and Invest NI,” the Minister explained.

“Economic policy is being reshaped fundamentally to focus greater resources on enterprise, innovation and growth.

“The new Business Birth Rate Strategy being developed by Invest NI will place entrepreneurial activity at the very heart of our economic planning. It will champion the role of entrepreneurs and ensure that all the necessary support mechanisms are integrated, relevant and easily accessible throughout Northern Ireland.”

(AMcE)