Starting a Business with Invest NI: Your Guide to Success

Are you ready to turn your business idea into a reality? Starting a business can be an exciting and rewarding journey, but it can also be overwhelming and challenging. That's why it's important to have the right support and resources to help you navigate the process.

Invest NI is here to support local start-ups in Northern Ireland, providing a range of services and programs tailored to your needs. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an experienced business owner looking to expand, Invest NI has the tools and expertise to help you succeed.

Support for Local Start-ups

Invest NI understands the unique challenges faced by local start-ups and offers comprehensive support to help you overcome them. From funding opportunities to business advisory services, Invest NI has everything you need to get your business off the ground.

Funding and Finance

One of the biggest hurdles for start-ups is securing funding. Invest NI offers a variety of funding options, including grants and loans, to help you finance your business. Whether you're in the early stages of development or ready to scale up, Invest NI can connect you with the right financial resources.

Business Advisory Services

Starting a business requires more than just a great idea. You need a solid business plan, market research, and guidance from experts. Invest NI provides business advisory services to help you develop your strategy, identify new markets, and improve your operations. Their team of experienced advisors is ready to support you every step of the way.

Technical Advice and Support

If you're in a technology-driven industry, Invest NI offers technical advice and support to help you navigate the complexities of innovation. From accessing innovation vouchers to funding through loans and equity, Invest NI has the resources to help you bring your innovative products to market.

Start-up Innovation Driven Enterprises

Innovation-Driven Enterprises (IDEs) are dynamic start-ups led by ambitious founders. These enterprises create innovative products, disrupt traditional industries, and aim for global success. Invest NI recognizes the potential of IDEs and provides targeted support to help them thrive.

Accelerating Innovation Programme

Invest NI's Founder Labs program is designed to accelerate the growth of IDEs. Through this program, you can access mentoring, networking opportunities, and resources to take your start-up to the next level. Whether you're looking to secure funding, expand your customer base, or refine your product, the Founder Labs program can provide the support you need.

Other Support and Eligibility

Invest NI offers a range of additional support for IDEs, including eligibility for innovation vouchers and funding through loans and equity. Their team of experts can help you navigate the eligibility criteria and connect you with the right resources to support your growth.

Support for Start-ups with Export Potential

For start-ups with export potential, Invest NI provides specialized support to help you tap into new markets and expand your global reach. From financial and advisory support to funding opportunities, Invest NI has the tools to help you succeed.

Financial and Advisory Support

Expanding into new markets can be challenging, but Invest NI is here to help. They offer financial and advisory support to help you identify potential customers, develop export strategies, and navigate international regulations. Whether you need assistance with market research or guidance on financing your export activities, Invest NI has the expertise to guide you.

Funding for Start-ups with Export Potential

To support start-ups with export potential, Invest NI provides funding opportunities tailored to your needs. Whether you're looking to attend international trade shows, develop new export-focused products, or establish a presence in new markets, Invest NI can help you access the financial resources you need to succeed.

How Invest NI Supports Business

Invest NI works directly and indirectly with businesses across Northern Ireland, providing a range of support services to help them thrive. From lean thinking tutorials to direct support from their team of experts, Invest NI is dedicated to helping businesses succeed.

Lean Thinking Tutorials

Invest NI offers lean thinking tutorials to help businesses improve their processes and operations. By adopting lean thinking principles, businesses can streamline their operations, reduce waste, and increase efficiency. Invest NI can provide the guidance and support you need to implement lean thinking strategies in your business.

Ambition to Grow: Unlocking Your Potential

If you're an ambitious and innovative business in Northern Ireland, the Ambition to Grow program is designed for you. This program offers a competition where businesses can compete to receive funding of up to £45,000. The program aims to identify and support the most innovative and ambitious businesses in Northern Ireland.

What Support is Available?

The Ambition to Grow program provides a range of support to help businesses unlock their potential. From funding opportunities to mentoring and networking, the program can help you take your business to the next level.

Invest NI Business Plan 2021-2022

Invest NI has recently published its 2021/22 Business Plan, outlining its strategic goals and priorities for the coming year. This plan provides insights into Invest NI's focus areas and the support they will offer to businesses in Northern Ireland.

Small Business Grants and Start-up Business Grants

If you're looking for additional financial support, there are a variety of small business grants and start-up business grants available in Northern Ireland. These grants can provide the funding you need to get your business off the ground or expand your operations.

Starting a Business: Your Next Steps

Now that you have a better understanding of the support and resources available through Invest NI, it's time to take the next steps towards starting your own business. Here are some key actions you can take:

• Research your market and competition to identify opportunities and challenges
• Develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals and strategies
• Explore funding options and determine the best fit for your business
• Take advantage of Invest NI's support services, including business advisory and technical advice
• Connect with other entrepreneurs and industry experts through networking events
• Stay up to date with the latest news and events from Invest NI to maximize your opportunities

Remember, starting a business is a journey, and it's important to have the right support along the way. With Invest NI by your side, you can turn your business idea into a successful reality.