Optimal Programme for Antrim and Newtownabbey businesses

The Optimal programme closes to new applications on 31 January 2023

Businesses based within Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council area, that have less than 50 full-time employees, can access mentoring, workshops and networking support through the Optimal business growth programme.

Mentoring support

If you are a small or medium-sized business or a social enterprise in the Borough area, you can apply to the programme to access mentors based on your particular business needs. 

Mentors will meet with you (virtually or in person) with specialist knowledge to work with you and your business. They bring their experience from a range of specialisms such as digital, export, marketing, finance or HR and governance.

Workshops and networking

The business workshops, as part of the Optimal programme, offer learning across six different areas: digital, export, social enterprise, sales, general and sustainability.

You don't have to take part in the mentoring programme to attend these workshops, so you can still benefit from guidance and advice with the added benefit of networking with other local business owners who are facing the same challenges as you.

Where possible, you will also be signposted to other organisations for further support, including council support, Invest Northern Ireland, your local Enterprise Agency, college and other partners.

First published 6 July 2021