New self-employment programme for Lisburn and Castlereagh

This programme provides a £500 bursary, workshops and one-to-one mentoring for those who have a business idea they would like to progress

Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council has launched the Vision to Venture Self-Employment Support Programme.

This programme, which begins in January 2025, provides support for the initial stages of setting up a business, along with critical skills and knowledge to venture into the self-employment marketplace. 

Training and mentoring

The Vision to Venture Programme offers one-to-one support to prepare participants for self-employment. 

Mentoring and training from trained professionals in the industry will allow individuals to explore their options, test ideas, write plans, and start their business.

Topics covered will include:

• marketing and social media training
• financial planning
• HMRC assistance
• procurement and confidence building.

Financial assistance

Grants of up to £500 are also available to participants at the initial stages of starting their business to assist in purchasing essential equipment. 

Find out more and apply for the Vision to Venture Programme.

First published 9 December 2024