Write a comment
Newry Chamber have launched their annual NI Small Business Conference. The event, which has been online only for the last two years, will take place in person this year on Thursday 9June 2022 from 8:30am to 4pm in the Canal Court Hotel & Spa, Newry. It will include keynote speakers, case studies and a larger exhibition space.
The conference will include expert speakers from specialist organisations and local employers who have continued to grow.
The Workshops
- Accessing Finance for Growth
- Sales & Digital Marketing
- Recruiting & Retaining Talent
- Future of the High Streets
- Sustainability & Dealing with Surging Energy Costs
- Focus on Start Ups
Keynote Speakers
- Simon Hamilton, CEO of Belfast Chamber of Commerce
- Glyn Roberts, CEO of Retail NI
Speaking about the Conference Tony McKeown, CEO of Newry Chamber said “We have been engaging with our members over the last number of months to better understand what the current challenges they face and opportunities they see. This conference is all about connecting our small business community with each other and with organisations that can support them.”
“Our conference programme covers the main areas we hear about when talking to businesses. We have inspirational case studies from many small businesses that have not only grown but thrived during the pandemic. Some hot topics include accessing finance for growth, the emerging gig economy to address the skills gap, growing sales online and across export markets, the desire to shop local and support our high streets, being proactive about net zero and how to deal with the surge in energy costs.”
The event is supported by principal sponsors, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and supporting sponsors, Federation of Small Businesses NI and Southern Regional College. It is open to organisations from across Northern Ireland, not just the Greater Newry Area.
Oonagh Magennis, Deputy Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council who are supporting the Conference said “We are delighted to support Newry Chamber of Commerce & Trade with this important initiative. As a Council, one of our key objectives is to support the development and growth of our businesses. This conference offers a vital opportunity for businesses to learn of the range of business supports on offer right across our District. The Council’s own businesses support programmes will be promoted at this event and I encourage local companies to contact the Council to find out more on the support available.”
Brendan Kearney, Regional Chair of FSB in NI said “The business community have shown remarkable resilience over the last two years. For many it was about survival. However, we are now looking to a better future. The FSB are here to help and this conference is a fantastic way to come together and discuss how we can work together to create a better economy for all. In Northern Ireland, we know that the economy is driven by small and medium enterprises. So please get involved and see what help is available.”
Tracy Rice, Head of Business Engagement at SRC added “SRC are delighted to be sponsoring this important conference and work with Newry Chamber and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council to support local businesses. We are thrilled to see small businesses in the Greater Newry Area taking such a proactive approach. We work with many local firms and feedback from employers is that initiatives like higher level apprenticeships and upskilling current workforce is making a positive difference to their bottom lines.”
The conference is FREE to attend for Newry Chamber and FSB NI Members and £35.00 + Booking Fee for Non-Members. Breakfast and Lunch will be provided on the day.
Book your place atwww.newrychamber.com
