Scheme aims to help budding entrepreneurs shed fears

A spokesperson said: “If you feel that working for yourself could be a real possibility for you then this programme is the ideal platform to help you get your ideas off the ground.

“The Exploring Enterprise 3 Programme is not your typical business course. Instead, it offers opportunity for you to talk to an advisor about your specific fears and worries and will help you to come up with a plan to move your ideas forward.”

A previous participant added, “This was a great programme, I would highly recommend it, it has provided me with skills, knowledge and confidence to take the next step into self- employment and I have gained a qualification, which is an added bonus”.

Participants will attend informal training sessions to explore whether self employment is the right option for them, by helping them to access the various elements involved in starting a business, including confidence- building, generating a business idea, exploring enterprise, developing skills, understanding the personal qualities and abilities for business and understanding the opportunities and risks involved in running a business.

“On completion of your training,” the spokesperson said, “you will be assigned an adviser who will guide you through the next steps.

“The help and support you receive at this stage is completely tailored to your specific needs and will be delivered on a one-to- one basis. It can include practical help like setting up a business Facebook page for you, assistance with designing business leaflets, helping to set up a record-keeping system or providing training in marketing.

“Even if you decide that self employment may not be right for you we can help you look at other employability options and will help with CV preparation, interview skills, identifying training needs etc.

“This programme is an Enterprise Northern Ireland initiative, which will be delivered by Enterprise Centre and is specifically designed to help the unemployed and under-represented groups to get back into the labour market.

“This free programme will not only improve your skills for business or employment but you will also be working towards an accredited qualification, a QCF Level One in Understanding Business Enterprise, upon successful completion of the programme.

“This project is part funded through the Northern Ireland European Social Fund 2014-2020 Investment for Jobs and Growth Programme, the Department for the Economy, Enterprise Northern Ireland, the Local Enterprise Agencies and the Armagh City Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.”

To find out more ring Ciara at BDEL on 028 4066 2260.