Business news

Go Succeed grant brews expansion for Co Down coffee house

Posted By:
Newry, Mourne & Down District Council

21st Oct 2024

A County Down coffee shop and restaurant is set to grow after receiving a grant through the government-backed Go Succeed business support service.

Avril McIlveen, who took over The Goose Coffee House in Comber earlier this year after two decades as a stay-at-home mum said she now plans to expand its services to use the venue as a community hub.

Inspired to become a business owner following a conversation with a friend, Avril took over The Goose Coffee House in the summer.

Avril said:

“After more than 20 years working as a mum, I knew that the time was right for me to get out there and start my own business.

“I’ve always been involved in hospitality, having worked part-time over the years in various cafes and restaurants, and I just love being with other people, so this was the natural move.

“Speaking with friends, one recommended The Goose Coffee House which was on the market at the time so we met there for coffee to see for ourselves. Within weeks, I had signed all the paperwork and got the keys.

“People often ask me what makes me most proud about the whole process, and honestly, I get the same feeling every morning when I open up the doors to start the day – I am just so proud that I have made this happen.”

In addition to expanding its food and drink offering, aided by financial assistance from Go Succeed which will go towards new kitchen equipment, Avril has curated a programme of activities at the venue over the coming months.

Avril continued:

“It was incredibly important for me to put my own stamp on The Goose Coffee House and I wanted to really make us part of the community.

“With the help of Go Succeed, these plans are starting to bear fruit.

“Before starting my family, I was originally a florist so that is close to my heart and we’ll be running a series of workshops on wreath making especially over autumn and Christmas, while plans are also under way for our very first Christmas Fair in December.

“Upstairs is where we serve afternoon tea – it is such a comfortable space and perfect for hosting these events and creating a real community hub feel. I cannot wait to see how it develops over the coming years.”

Services from Go Succeed are delivered completely free of charge via each of Northern Ireland’s 11 councils.

Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart said:

“Through Go Succeed, we have been delighted to see the creation and growth of countless businesses across the Ards and North Down Borough over the past year.

“Avril’s success at The Goose Coffee House is the perfect example of how the service is helping entrepreneurs to flourish regardless of whether they have any previous experience running a business.

“Many congratulations to Avril on the beginning of her business journey and we look forward to seeing it further develop over the coming months and years.”

Go Succeed (www.go-succeed.com) is funded by the UK Government. The service supports entrepreneurs, new starts and existing businesses with easy-to-access advice and support including mentoring, master classes, peer networks, access to grant funding and a business plan, at every stage of their growth journey.