The Ambition to Grow programme, launched in 2022 by Invest NI to help micro, small and medium sized enterprises in the north to achieve external sales and create employment, has so far helped 250 companies, according to economy minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald.
She confirmed the milestone during a visit to Newry-based specialist joinery and fit-out services firm Black Forest Joinery, which successfully applied to the programme in 2024.
Ambition to Grow offers innovative and ambitious enterprises the opportunity to apply for up to £45,000 in funding to expand and grow their business, and successful applicants also become part of Invest NI’s client portfolio.
And more than half of the companies that have participated on the programme are based outside the Belfast Metropolitan Area, contributing towards a more regionally balanced economy.
The minister said: “SMEs are the backbone of our economy. Often based in the heart of communities right across the north, they make a significant contribution to our society and overall prosperity.
“Since the programme began it has helped support over 250 companies which, as a result, plan to create over 800 jobs and sell products and services into new markets.
“Those new external sales have the potential to generate £78 million of new business for these companies by 2027, offering a significant boost to our economy.”
She added: “To see the difference this programme is making here at Black Forest Joinery is wonderful, and I know this positive impact is replicated in many businesses, in various sectors, across the north.”
Black Forest Joinery managing director Breandan Hardy said: “We’ve learned a lot from Invest NI and other companies since joining Ambition to Grow.
“We’ve created four jobs and hired a business development manager to undertake market research and target new customers, which has enabled us to expand our sales, especially in GB and Republic of Ireland.
“With market development support we are also in the process of designing a website and launching our own social media to increase our online presence and grow our sales further.”
Iain Joannides, director of regional business at Invest NI, added: “We created Ambition to Grow to support businesses to grow their exports and create good jobs.
“The majority of companies that have taken part have never worked with us before. The programme has allowed us to reach a wider range of businesses enabling us to support even more small and micro businesses across Northern Ireland.
“We’ve also delivered Ambition to Grow programmes dedicated to women entrepreneurs, and for businesses focussed on going green.
“Along with financial support, this innovative programme provides tailored advice on growing sales and leadership and will help hundreds of companies to scale and grow in markets outside of Northern Ireland.”
