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 91Ï㽶»ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ 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 91Ï㽶»ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ 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 .
First published 9 December 2024