DOWN District Council’s Beyond Business Programme was selected by the Institute of Small Business and Entrepreneurship (ISBE) to participate in its Annual Conference in Dublin which took place earlier this month.
Taking place over two days with over 400 attendees from more than 40 countries, the Beyond programme was chosen as a best practice example of local authority business support.
Attending the conference and presenting to business support practitioners and policy makers were Michael Forster, Beyond Business Intelligence Officer and Rhonda McDowell, Beyond Business Outreach Officer. In the presentation information was shared regarding the Beyond Programme, which is delivered by Down District Council as a local authority.
The presentation was positively received and concentrated on the key results and benefits to local businesses alongside implications for future business support policy.
Down District Council Chairperson, Councillorr Mickey Coogan said: “The ISBE is a network for people and organisations involved in small business and entrepreneurship research, policy, education, support and advice. As a council we are committed to creating a strong local economy and supporting the district’s businesses through initiatives such as the Beyond Programme.
“It is testament to Down District Council’s Beyond Programme that it has been recognised as a case study in local authority business support and asked to be part of such an important international conference.”
Cultural and Economic Committee Chairperson Councillor Anne McAleenan added: “I am delighted for the Beyond team. I would urge all businesses in the district to explore how they can benefit from the support available through Beyond.”
For more information about support available through Beyond please visit www.beyondni.co.uk or contact Rhonda or Michael from the Beyond Team on 028 4461 0856.
