Write a comment
Newry and Mourne Co-operative and Enterprise Agency has been contributing to the economic and social development of the Newry, South Armagh and South Down area since 1972 and in 2026 it is still as active as ever in driving business growth, workforce development and cross-border collaboration.
celebrating 50 years since the formation of WIN. Photograph: Colum Lynch
The Greater Newry Business Awards celebrated the Agency in 2025 for its half-century plus of work in transforming the region, a legacy described as reflecting not only economic impact but a longstanding commitment to peacebuilding and reconciliation through enterprise.
Over the past year the Agency has delivered a range of initiatives aimed at supporting local regeneration and business development. Among these was the completion of a Vacant Commercial Property Survey, providing data intended to inform urban renewal, support investment decisions and shape the future of town centres across the region.
International trade has also been a focus, with the Agency leading the Innovate Accelerate cross-border market investigation mission to Germany in December 2025, giving local companies the opportunity to explore new export opportunities and develop their global outlook.
Ireland in Germany.
The Agency's role in shaping economic policy was further underlined when it hosted the Economy Minister at its WIN Business Park headquarters in Newry for the official launch of the Newry, Mourne and Down Local Economic Partnership Action Plan.
At an individual level, the Agency has continued to provide mentorship and tailored support to young people facing significant adversity, helping to create pathways into employment and enterprise.
Looking ahead, the organisation has outlined plans to enhance service delivery across the four business sites it manages at WIN Business Park, Warrenpoint Enterprise Centre, Forkhill Enterprise Centre and Binnian Enterprise Centre, while continuing its work through the Newry, Mourne and Down Local Strategy Partnership and Labour Market Partnership, with workforce development and employability among the key priorities. Cross-border collaboration is also set to remain central to its work.
Dr Conor Patterson, Chief Executive of Newry and Mourne Co-operative and Enterprise Agency, said: "Our work has always been rooted in supporting people, businesses and communities to realise their potential, and the past year has demonstrated the strength of that approach."
He added: "Equally important is the impact we make at an individual level, supporting young people facing significant challenges and helping them access pathways into employment and enterprise. This work is fundamental to building a more inclusive and resilient economy."
On the year ahead, Dr Patterson said: "As we look ahead to 2026, partnership will remain central to everything we do. By working collaboratively across local and cross-border networks, and continuing to invest in our sites and services, we are well positioned to support the next phase of growth and opportunity for businesses and communities throughout Newry, Mourne and Down."
