Creating New Opportunities in Ballymena Town Centre
Creativity and Enterprise was on the table at Ballymena Business Centre’s Church Street site as the organisation recently revealed their plans to support craft makers from the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council. Plans include a new look studio and retail space which will be re-branded to become known as Midtown Makers as well as a continued active partnership approach with industry leader Craft NI.
Work on the new look studio and retail space, which will be designed by leading retail consultant Mags McAlpin, will commence in May with the aim of opening to the public in August. It will feature a unique, dynamic and vibrant space for craft entrepreneurs to showcase their products. Craft Makers aiming to take the next step with their business will benefit from affordable studio and shop space, wrap around business support services as well as a range of opportunities to promote their business.
Alongside this businesses will benefit from the knowledge, expertise and services of Ballymena Business Centre as well as their partnership approach with organisations such as Craft NI, Ballymena Business Improvement District, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and the retail, tourism and creative sector.
Speaking at the launch of Midtown Makers Melanie Christie Boyle commented:
“Since 1989, Ballymena Business Centre has continued to play a pivotal role in creating an enterprise culture in the Ballymena area. The launch of Midtown Makers forms part of our clear commitment to supporting the forthcoming Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Economic Strategy and Community Plan. We are dedicated to creating opportunities for craft makers in the borough and alongside this we will ensure that we offer a high standard of business services, affordable packages and access to partnerships which will help to build an enterprising community in Ballymena.”
Work on the new look studio and retail space, which will be designed by leading retail consultant Mags McAlpin, will commence in May with the aim of opening to the public in August. It will feature a unique, dynamic and vibrant space for craft entrepreneurs to showcase their products. Craft Makers aiming to take the next step with their business will benefit from affordable studio and shop space, wrap around business support services as well as a range of opportunities to promote their business.
Alongside this businesses will benefit from the knowledge, expertise and services of Ballymena Business Centre as well as their partnership approach with organisations such as Craft NI, Ballymena Business Improvement District, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and the retail, tourism and creative sector.
Speaking at the launch of Midtown Makers Melanie Christie Boyle commented:
“Since 1989, Ballymena Business Centre has continued to play a pivotal role in creating an enterprise culture in the Ballymena area. The launch of Midtown Makers forms part of our clear commitment to supporting the forthcoming Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Economic Strategy and Community Plan. We are dedicated to creating opportunities for craft makers in the borough and alongside this we will ensure that we offer a high standard of business services, affordable packages and access to partnerships which will help to build an enterprising community in Ballymena.”
Partnership Aims to Help Ballymena Start-ups thrive
Ballymena Business Centre and Ballymena Borough Chamber of Commerce and Industry have joined forces in a partnership which aims to support entrepreneurs in the Ballymena area. The partnership features a 1 year free membership of the Ballymena Borough Chamber of Commerce and Industry to businesses who have successfully completed the Go For It Programme. The free membership will offer access to vital events and activities such as networking and business training workshops.
Minister Storey Signals Changes to Business Rating System
Finance Minister Mervyn Storey signalled changes to business rates, following the recent review of the business rating system. The Minister was speaking to business organisations and local entrepreneurs at an event in Ballymena Business Centre.
Minister Supports Ballymena Business Centre Enterprise Plan
The Minister for Finance, Mervyn Storey MLA joined Ballymena Business Centre as they reviewed their 2012 to 2015 Enterprise Plan. Attendance at this event included Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and other Ballymena stakeholders from education, business and community sector. The ministerial visit not only provided an opportunity to share enterprise themes for 2016 but also for Ballymena Business Centre to pledge their support for Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Economic Strategy and Community Plan.
Finance Minister Mervyn Storey said:
"I have long supported Ballymena Business Centre and I am well aware of the excellent work they have been doing for the past 27 years. The Northern Ireland Executive is committed to ensuring that businesses have the best possible conditions to grow and prosper and I congratulate the work of Ballymena Business Centre for helping us achieve this. it is particularly commendable that the Centre has been so active in supporting local people to start up new businesses, which is key in providing new job opportunities and driving forward economic growth".
Finance Minister Mervyn Storey said:
"I have long supported Ballymena Business Centre and I am well aware of the excellent work they have been doing for the past 27 years. The Northern Ireland Executive is committed to ensuring that businesses have the best possible conditions to grow and prosper and I congratulate the work of Ballymena Business Centre for helping us achieve this. it is particularly commendable that the Centre has been so active in supporting local people to start up new businesses, which is key in providing new job opportunities and driving forward economic growth".
Creativity Month at Ballymena Business Centre
Ballymena Business Centre is set to host a Networking Event on Thursday 31st March 2015 for Craft Makers from the Mid and East Antrim Council area. Craft Makers will have an opportunity to promote and exhibit their craft products and learn from guest speakers including Craft NI and local Creative Entrepreneurs.
Ballymena Business Centre recognised for Regeneration in NIIRTAs Economic Programme for Government 2016 - 2021
Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association [NIIRTA] launched their Alternative Programme for Government at Titanic, Belfast. This Programme outlines 97 recommendations, setting out policy priorities for each of the nine new Executive departments, which will be established after the Assembly election. NIIRTA is the first business organisation to produce such a plan. Officially launched in February 2016 NIIRTA recognises within the document the outstanding efforts made by Ballymena Business Centre in the development of their Town Centre Enterprise Hub.
Ballymena Business Centre supports Young Enterprise NI Trade FairYoung Enterprise Northern Ireland visited Tower Centre, Ballymena on 11th February to host their annual Trade Show which saw a number of companies come together to showcase and sell a variety of products. Young Enterprise NI is a charity developing the entrepreneurial skills of young people aged 4 to 25 years in order to prepare them for the new economy.
Ballymena Business Centre have worked alongside Young Enterprise NI for the past number of years and have been represented by Stephen Scullion, Centre Manager who has sat on the finalist judging panel of previous Trade Shows and also by Jenine McIlroy, Business Advisor who volunteers as a Young Enterprise NI Mentor. |
Mid and East Antrim Craft Cluster
Ballymena Business Centre is set to open new retail incubation space within their Town Centre premises for artist and craft makers from the Mid and East Antrim area. This retail incubation space is designed to provide makers with the opportunity to test out their products, promote their brand, learn about marketing and visual merchandising and showcase within affordable town centre premises.
2015 Best Window Display in Ballymena
Ballymena Business Centre Town Centre Enterprise Hub was presented with the 2015 Winners Award for the Best Dressed Christmas Window in Ballymena. The special 'Ice Themed Creations' were designed by local crafters in collaboration with Mags McAlpine Retail VM.
Sponsored by Ballymena Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Sponsored by Ballymena Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Ballymena Bear Goes Viral!
The Ballymena Bear was created by Ballymena Business Centre Entrepreneur Michelle Lowry of Penny & Rose. Michelle is a graduate of Ballymena Business Centre having successfully completed the Arts and Craft Start Up Programme Funded by the Arts Council for Northern Ireland and is a resident maker in Ballymena Business Centre Retail Incubation Space located in the Enterprise Hub Church Street Ballymena. The Ballymena Bear is the result of an innovative marketing campaign by Ballymena BID with advertisement created by Grafters Design Studio.
EEP3 Programme Launched in Mid and East Antrim Borough Council
A new programme has been launched to help people in Mid and East Antrim to start their own business or find new jobs and training opportunities. Exploring Enterprise3 (EE3p) is being delivered by Enterprise Northern Ireland, the umbrella body for Northern Ireland’s Local Enterprise Agencies.
The project is part funded through the Northern Ireland European Social Fund 2014-2020 Investment for Jobs and Growth Programme, the Department for Employment & Learning, Enterprise Northern Ireland, Local Enterprise Agencies and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.
This new initiative will provide support to unemployed or economically inactive people across Northern Ireland. It is designed to fill a gap in the market for those who don’t have the opportunities to take part in training or lack the skills to find employment. The programme provides 143 courses delivered by a network of 29 Local Enterprise Agencies.
Councillor Billy Ashe, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council said: “Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has part funded Enterprise NI’s new Exploring Enterprise3 programme. I therefore welcome this development as the programme aims to tackle unemployment in the area and give training opportunities to people from disadvantaged backgrounds.”
The project is part funded through the Northern Ireland European Social Fund 2014-2020 Investment for Jobs and Growth Programme, the Department for Employment & Learning, Enterprise Northern Ireland, Local Enterprise Agencies and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.
This new initiative will provide support to unemployed or economically inactive people across Northern Ireland. It is designed to fill a gap in the market for those who don’t have the opportunities to take part in training or lack the skills to find employment. The programme provides 143 courses delivered by a network of 29 Local Enterprise Agencies.
Councillor Billy Ashe, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council said: “Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has part funded Enterprise NI’s new Exploring Enterprise3 programme. I therefore welcome this development as the programme aims to tackle unemployment in the area and give training opportunities to people from disadvantaged backgrounds.”
2015 Start a Business Roadshow
Ballymena Business Centre hosted the 2015 Start a Business Roadshow as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week. This event was supported by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and promoted a one stop shop for access to 500 business ideas, free business advice and access to start up finance. Exhibitions and Information Stands were provided by The Princes Trust, North East Rural Development Partnership, Ballymena BID, Healthy High Streets, Michelin Development, Women on the Move Network, Northern Regional College, Business to Business Trade Directory, Craft NI and Ballymena Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The 2015 Start a Business Roadshow was officially opened by Deputy Mayor Timothy Gaston Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.
Ballymena Business Centre Sponsor Ballymena Community Cluster Awards
Ballymena Business Centre and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council were joint sponsors of the 2015 Ballymena Community Cluster Awards. This prestigious event was held in the Braid Arts Centre and celebrated the achievements of many individuals from the community of Ballymena.
Melanie Christie Boyle, Chief Executive, Ballymena Business Centre highlights "Being able to support this community event and recognising the contribution made by many individuals is vital. It is individuals within our community who volunteer their time, who inspire the next generation and who transform their local area through regeneration projects, attracting investment, new business opportunities and create new jobs"
Melanie Christie Boyle, Chief Executive, Ballymena Business Centre highlights "Being able to support this community event and recognising the contribution made by many individuals is vital. It is individuals within our community who volunteer their time, who inspire the next generation and who transform their local area through regeneration projects, attracting investment, new business opportunities and create new jobs"
NIIRTA Launches 'Retail First' Policy at Ballymena Business Centre
On a visit to the new Ballymena Business Centre Hub in Church Street NIIRTA met with Ballymena Chamber of Commerce and Ballymena Business Centre to jointly launch the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association proposals entitled 'Retail First' for Northern Ireland MPs and the new Parliament.
Pictured: Alan Stewart, President, Ballymena Chamber of Commerce; Melanie Christie Boyle, Chief Executive, Ballymena Business Centre and Glyn Roberts, Chief Executive, NIIRTA.
Pictured: Alan Stewart, President, Ballymena Chamber of Commerce; Melanie Christie Boyle, Chief Executive, Ballymena Business Centre and Glyn Roberts, Chief Executive, NIIRTA.
Ballymena Business Centre Entrepreneur Sasha McVey is awarded Young Artist of the Year
Sasha McVey of Sasha McVey Ceramics was awarded NI Young Artist of the Year by Ballymena Rotary Club at a ceremony hosted in The Braid Centre. Sasha is a graduate from the University of Ulster with a BA Contemporary Applied Arts Degree and has successfully completed the Ballymena Business Centre RBS Inspiring Youth Programme. Sasha McVey Ceramics is located in Ballymena Business Centre Town Enterprise Hub.
Launch of Raglan Regeneration Project
Ballymena Business Centre supports the regeneration of the Raglan Pub in Harryville. This project will be undertaken by Slemish and the Braid Credit Union with property management solutions being provided by Ballymena Business Centre. This regeneration project will comprise of business start up office and retail accommodation. Picture - Official Launch of Project Plans at Ballymena Business Centre, April 2015.
YES for the Ballymena BID
Ballymena is the first town in Northern Ireland to become a Business Improvement District [BIDs]. BIDs is an effective way in which businesses can take control and improve their trading environment. BIDs are funded and controlled directly by the businesses that pay for them. As the first in Northern Ireland this YES Vote is set to transform Ballymena Town Centre. Picture - Official Announcement of BIDs Ballot at Braid Arts and Cultural Museum, March 2015.
Ballymena Business Centre receives Recognition Award
Ballymena Business Centre was among forty-seven individuals and groups who were honoured for making the Ballymena Borough a better place to live and work during the last four decades. This prestigious ceremony hosted by the Mayor Cllr. Audrey Wales MBE marked the legacy of Ballymena Borough Council in advance of the new Mid and East Antrim Borough Council. Picture - Recognition Ceremony in the Braid Arts and Cultural Museum, March 2015
Ballymena Business Centre features on Irish TV
Ballymena Business Centre Entrepreneurs feature on Irish TV Programme County Matters. This programme showcases Ballymena Business Centres new Town Enterprise Hub with case studies from four resident Creative Entrepreneurs. Link - County Matters Programme, March 2015
New Enterprise Hub puts Ballymena at the Centre of Business
Ballymena Business Centre Officially Opened their new Enterprise Hub in Ballymena Town Centre. Special guests included Cllr Audrey Wales MBE Mayor of Ballymena and Mr Mervyn Storey MLA Minister Department for Social Development. Picture - Official Opening in Ballymena Business Centre, March 2015
Ballymena Business Centre and other Local Enterprise Agencies in Northern Ireland promote Entrepreneurship
Discover how Local Enterprise Agencies in Northern Ireland are making a difference and supporting local entrepreneurs start and grow their business. YouTube Link - Local Enterprise Agency Interviews 2014
Ballymena South Enterprise Competition
Ballymena Business Centre is
encouraging individuals and groups from the Ballymena South Neighbourhood
Renewal Area to submit their Enterprising Ideas and be in with a chance of
receiving financial support and one to one guidance to take their idea to the
next level.
Ballymena Business Centre has been committed to making a difference in the Ballymena Community for 25 years. With a clear focus on business and enterprise this latest project will encourage individuals and groups to think of ideas that could be further developed into a start-up business or social enterprise.
Minister for Social Development Mervyn Storey MLA said: “I am pleased to announce a funding package of over £7,000 for this Ballymena South Enterprise Competition. The main aim of the project, which is to be run in conjunction with the Ballymena Business Centre, is to encourage local people from the Ballymena South Neighbourhood Renewal Area to think about starting their own business, help those individuals and groups prepare a business presentation and provide financial assistance to help develop their enterprising idea. This is seen as a very worthwhile project which gives a great opportunity for local people to get their potential business ideas off the ground.”
Melanie Christie Boyle, Chief Executive, Ballymena Business Centre said “Business and Enterprise is the back bone of our economy and it is important that opportunities are available to everyone within our community to explore new business ideas. Our team at Ballymena Business Centre provide that much need one to one support to offer encouragement, building confidence and ultimately help individuals and groups to start their own business. I am particularly delighted to have received endorsement from Minister Storey MLA and support from the Department for Social Development for this community project”.
Ballymena Business Centre has been committed to making a difference in the Ballymena Community for 25 years. With a clear focus on business and enterprise this latest project will encourage individuals and groups to think of ideas that could be further developed into a start-up business or social enterprise.
Minister for Social Development Mervyn Storey MLA said: “I am pleased to announce a funding package of over £7,000 for this Ballymena South Enterprise Competition. The main aim of the project, which is to be run in conjunction with the Ballymena Business Centre, is to encourage local people from the Ballymena South Neighbourhood Renewal Area to think about starting their own business, help those individuals and groups prepare a business presentation and provide financial assistance to help develop their enterprising idea. This is seen as a very worthwhile project which gives a great opportunity for local people to get their potential business ideas off the ground.”
Melanie Christie Boyle, Chief Executive, Ballymena Business Centre said “Business and Enterprise is the back bone of our economy and it is important that opportunities are available to everyone within our community to explore new business ideas. Our team at Ballymena Business Centre provide that much need one to one support to offer encouragement, building confidence and ultimately help individuals and groups to start their own business. I am particularly delighted to have received endorsement from Minister Storey MLA and support from the Department for Social Development for this community project”.
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Minister Storey visits New Premises
Ballymena Business Centre was
honoured to host a visit from Minister Mervyn Storey MLA, Department for Social
Development. Minister Storey had the
opportunity to meet with some of the local arts and craft entrepreneurs who are
located at Ballymena Business Centres new premises in Church Street in the
town. Ballymena Business Centre opened
this new facility to support the regeneration of Ballymena Town Centre.
Melanie Christie Boyle, Chief Executive, Ballymena Business centre explains “our Church Street premises are currently hosting 30 arts and craft entrepreneurs from Ballymena and neighbouring council areas; supporting community and social enterprise in turn key office accommodation, providing exhibition space to the education, voluntary and community sector and supporting the local business base with meeting room and hot desk facilities”.
Social Development Minister, Minister Storey MLA, expressed his support for the new facility and said: “I commend the work of Ballymena Business Centre in attracting local entrepreneurs into the town centres. This can only add more diversity and vitality to the very distinctive qualities of the town. “I am also delighted that work will soon start on a major Public Realm upgrade, with an investment of £4m by my Department and Ballymena Borough Council. This work will be of great benefit to both businesses in the town and the local people who shop and work there.”
Melanie Christie Boyle, Chief Executive, Ballymena Business centre explains “our Church Street premises are currently hosting 30 arts and craft entrepreneurs from Ballymena and neighbouring council areas; supporting community and social enterprise in turn key office accommodation, providing exhibition space to the education, voluntary and community sector and supporting the local business base with meeting room and hot desk facilities”.
Social Development Minister, Minister Storey MLA, expressed his support for the new facility and said: “I commend the work of Ballymena Business Centre in attracting local entrepreneurs into the town centres. This can only add more diversity and vitality to the very distinctive qualities of the town. “I am also delighted that work will soon start on a major Public Realm upgrade, with an investment of £4m by my Department and Ballymena Borough Council. This work will be of great benefit to both businesses in the town and the local people who shop and work there.”
Into Business Magazine is a local publication promoting business advice, news, features and events in the Ballymena area. If you have an interesting business story or would like to contribute a business article get in touch with the Into Business Team. Ballymena Business Centre operates as a Social Enterprise by advertising in this publication you are supporting the voluntary work we deliver within the local community. http://issuu.com/Ballymena