Mid Ulster goes 'virtual' for 2020 Enterprise Week

The Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Cathal Mallaghan pictured with local business representatives to launch this year’s virtual programme of events for Enterprise Week 2020.

A total of 12 webinars will take place across the week under the theme of ‘Survival, Recovery, Resilience’, reflecting the very different economic context in which businesses are operating as a result of coronavirus.

Retail and hospitality, two of the sectors hardest-hit by the pandemic, will benefit from the experience of the celebrated restauranteur, Michael Deane, and high street champion, Graham Soult.

Michael Deane, who is one of the most recognisable faces in Ireland’s hospitality industry, will be demonstrating resilience in action when he talks about how he has adapted his business during the pandemic, while Graham Soult will share hints and tips that the retailers of Mid Ulster can use to help them navigate and trade successfully through the Covid-19 situation and into the future.

Several expert panels will be convened online, with panelists providing insight and guidance over the course of the week and providing participants with an opportunity to ask questions and seek advice.

One panel brings together speakers from a range of organisations to bring clarity to the range of funding and support for business generally, as well as specifically related to the impact of Covid-19, while another will be providing very specific advice on what the EU Exit will mean for companies which source or produce chemicals.

The manufacturing sector is to the fore in a third panel session when some of Mid Ulster’s industry leaders, including guest speaker Pat O’Neill, founding member of Powerscreen, come together for a live Q&A.

In this event, organised by MEGA – Manufacturing and Engineering Growth and Advancement – participants will hear how the network’s vision to create a pipeline of skilled talent fit for industry needs is being put into practice and learn from the sector’s collaborative approach.

The ever-increasing importance of digital platforms for business is also reflected in the programme, with sessions covering effective use of LinkedIn and creating engaging online content to connect with customers.

And the experiences of others who have taken the plunge to start their own businesses through the ‘Go For It’ programme is set to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs.

Launching Enterprise Week 2020, Councillor Cathal Mallaghan, Chair of the Council, said that while the events may be virtual, they will have no less impact: “Both our approach and our content reflect the fact that we are delivering a this programme during a pandemic and while Enterprise Week may be virtual in 2020, the events will be no less impactful.

“Mid Ulster is renowned for an extraordinary level of entrepreneurship and while the current operating environment may be challenging for many sectors, many of our businesses are continuing to adapt, flex and innovate to meet those challenges.

“And of course there will be individuals who are continuing to explore possible business ideas or are in the early stages of starting a business.

“The programme is deliberately diverse to reflect different stages of business growth, and different areas of interest, as well as topics which will have broad appeal, regardless of your stage or sector.”

For further information about Enterprise Week 2020 and to book for an event, visit www.midulstercouncil.org/enterpriseweek.