Support
It might sound like entrepreneurs make it or break it on their own. It鈥檚 true that they carry more responsibility that the average worker.
But they are not alone. Small and medium sized businesses are vital to the health of the economy, so there is plenty of support for people who are willing to take the risk to start one.
The Department of Employment and Learning (DEL)
The Department of Employment and Learning (DEL) offers training courses in the many skills that entrepreneurs need to succeed. This training is provided through colleges, or through special initiatives aimed at attracting people into self-employment.
The Department for the Economy (DfE)
The Department for the Economy (DfE) is the government department responsible for the health of the Northern Ireland economy. Small and medium sized businesses are big employers, so the DfE is particularly interested in supporting entrepreneurs.
DfE has a wide range of responsibilities including economic policy, higher education, employment and skills programmes, innovation and enterprise. The last two鈥攊nnovation and enterprise鈥攎ean developing new products and starting new businesses. Where the DfE works on these responsibilities, it works specifically with entrepreneurs.
Invest Northern Ireland
Invest Northern Ireland (Invest NI) is part of the DfE. It works closely with governments, investors, and businesses around the world to attract investment to Northern Ireland. It also offers support to local businesses and entrepreneurs, with the aim of helping them attract investment or export their products overseas.
Invest NI offers advice on all aspects of business such as finding funding, creating strategies, improving skills, and moving into new markets.
The Prince鈥檚 Trust
The Prince鈥檚 Trust works with young people between the ages of 13 and 30 who have been in care, struggled with school, have become involved in crime or have been unemployed for a long time.
They help young people by:
- developing their skills through support and training
- offering practical support in finding a job
- providing financial support
- working to build confidence and self-esteem
The Prince鈥檚 Trust also helps young people to develop their business ideas and make them a reality.