Council's 'Go For It' programme helps 350 Belfast entrepreneurs

by Gráinne Connolly

Belfast City Council's 'Go For It' programme has reached a significant milestone, after helping 350 local entrepreneurs launch a business since last September. 

The scheme provides advice and support to anyone wishing to start their own company by taking them through a step by step process of creating a business plan. 

Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Hargey said, "We're delighted that the Go For It programme has helped 350 Belfast entrepreneurs get up and running so far.

"We’re committed to supporting 4,000 small business start ups over the next four years through The Belfast Agenda and this is a great step towards achieving our goal."

The Mayor also says, "I’m really encouraged to hear how Daly Recruitment has benefited from completing the programme.

"They’re currently the only specialised hospitality management recruiter in NI, working with clients and candidates across Ireland and the UK to find that perfect recruitment match for the luxury hotel market, contract catering and conference and events sectors.

"I’d encourage anyone who has a business idea to get in touch with us today to see how we can help make it a reality.” 

Nichola Daly, Director, Daly Recruitment said:

“The Go For It programme encouraged me to take the initial leap and helped me to understand and deal with the complexities of starting a business.

"Go For It provided me with a business plan, and through regular mentoring sessions, I’ve developed the confidence I need to drive my business forward.

"It’s also armed me with the financial understanding I need to operate profitably. I’m very grateful to the team at Ormeau Business Park for their invaluable support.” 

Patricia McNeill, Manager of Ormeau Business Park said: “Daly Recruitment is an excellent example of the growing number of entrepreneurs availing of support through the Go For It business ecosystem to start and successfully launch her business in Belfast. 

“Ormeau Business Park start up client Nichola Daly has seized the moment in the thriving NI hospitality sector to provide a professional, experienced service that since launching in June of this year, is already growing in stature as the key recruitment specialist with industry professionals.”