A new major partnership set to drive investment, innovation and business growth across the Borough has been officially launched by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.
The Local Economic Partnership (LEP), supported through the Department for the Economy’s Regional Balance Fund, will deliver a locally led programme of economic investment designed to help businesses grow, improve productivity, create jobs and unlock new opportunities across the Borough over the next two years.
Officially launched at Mossley Mill on Friday 26 June, the Partnership brings together the Council, Invest Northern Ireland and key economic stakeholders to deliver a long-term action plan focused on strengthening the local economy and ensuring businesses can receive practical support that delivers on the Economy Minister, Dr Caoimhe Archibald’s economic priorities.
The new Partnership will provide targeted support to businesses across Antrim and Newtownabbey, with a particular focus on micro businesses, SMEs and ambitious companies looking to grow. Through the programme, businesses will be supported to scale their operations, invest in innovation, improve productivity and explore new market opportunities.
Alongside direct business support, the Partnership will also invest in employment sites, enterprise space and projects that encourage entrepreneurship, attract investment and create high-quality jobs throughout the Borough.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan said:
“This is one of the most significant economic initiatives our Borough has seen in recent years. The LEP gives us the opportunity to invest directly in the strengths of our local economy while responding to the specific challenges our businesses face. By supporting innovation, sustainability and business growth, we are helping to create a stronger, more resilient economy for the future.”
The LEP reinforces the Council’s role in leading economic development locally and aims to support sustainable and inclusive growth, encourage investment and innovation, and create new jobs across the Borough.
Minister for the Economy, Dr Caoimhe Archibald said:
“Local Economic Partnerships are helping to deliver a more balanced and regionally focused approach to economic development. By empowering Councils to work alongside local partners, these partnerships will help unlock each area’s unique economic strengths, encourage innovation, improve productivity and create opportunities for sustainable growth. Through my Department’s Regional Balance Fund, Antrim and Newtownabbey is receiving almost £3m and we look forward to working with them and its partners to deliver practical initiatives that will support local businesses and contribute to a stronger regional economy where everyone shares in the benefits of prosperity.”
Businesses interested in finding out more about the support available through the Local Economic Partnership can visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/Business or E. LEP@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk.
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