Rural Business Development Grant Scheme Proves A Hit With Rural Businesses

There are a large number of rural micro-businesses across Northern Ireland that have benefited from the Rural Business Development Grant Scheme. In fact 763 businesses have been awarded grants through the scheme, the total money awarded amounting to £2.6 million.

The money has been granted in order for these businesses to purchase equipment and to help them become sustainable, grow and provide further jobs in the local economy. The grants could be anything up to a total of £4,999, and have proved extremely useful to many upcoming rural businesses.

These Small Capital Grants Encourage Investment And Growth

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir spoke about the success of these business development grants the other day, and he is quoted in an article on the 4NI website as saying:

“I am delighted to announce that 763 rural businesses across Northern Ireland have received grants totalling £2.6m to support their sustainability and growth,” Minister Muir said. “These small capital grants encourage rural businesses to invest in expanding their operations, provide additional services, innovate, enter new markets, stay competitive and in many cases create employment opportunities.”

He added, “The Rural Business Development Grant Scheme which is funded under the Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Framework aligns very well with my Department’s goal of cultivating strong, sustainable, and diverse rural communities.” 

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, is quoted in the same article as saying:

“We would like to extend our thanks to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for the financial support that enabled the delivery of the Rural Business Development Grant Scheme in Ards and North Down. The scheme has successfully supported businesses within our rural areas to continue to innovate, expand, and thrive. This was a valuable opportunity to deliver essential support to our local businesses, demonstrating both the Department and the Council’s commitment to fostering vibrant rural communities.”

Important For All Levels Of Government To Support Rural Businesses

Also in the same article, at the visit to Alpine Signs in Comber, Alderman Amanda Grehan, Regeneration and Growth Chair at Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council, is quoted saying:

“Our team is proud to deliver this grant scheme across our area and the rural areas of Belfast on behalf of DAERA. It is important for all levels of government to support the growth of rural businesses. Through the recent funding round Alpine Signs was able to purchase new equipment that improves productivity and maximises efficiency.”

She further noted, “In addition to these benefits the new equipment improves the quality of each print job and has meant an apprentice can be employed. As a council we are supportive of apprenticeships and believe at Alpine Signs this new individual will learn a skilled trade from experienced members of the team.”