2026 will see North Down Development Organisation expand its facilities, strengthen its enterprise programmes and further develop its training and mentoring offer as it continues to support business growth across North Down. With plans to enhance its Innotec site and evolve its “Venture” brand, the organisation is focused on creating even more opportunities for entrepreneurs to start, scale and succeed.
Since 1984, North Down Development Organisation has played a vital role in developing business and social capital across the Borough, marking 42 years of sustained impact. Operating across two sites in Bangor, the organisation has provided essential workspace for start-ups and growing businesses, helping to create employment and support long-term economic development.
This work is underpinned by a comprehensive range of training programmes and support initiatives tailored to all stages of business, from pre-start through to growth. Through the Go Succeed Programme, the organisation has delivered over 2,000 hours of mentoring to local entrepreneurs, alongside more than 958 hours of dedicated support for growth clients across the Ards and North Down Borough Council area.
North Down Development Organisation
The organisation’s impact is driven by a highly skilled and award-winning team, supported by a long-standing commitment to quality, holding ISO 9001 accreditation since 1997. Its dedication to the business community has been recognised through numerous accolades, including Commitment to Business Awards, Best Business Premises Awards, Business Advisor of the Year, and an MBE awarded to its Chief Executive.
North Down Development Organisation is also an active champion of the local business ecosystem. It sponsors the Emerging Business Award at the Bangor Business Awards and leads collaborative initiatives such as the Bangor Connects Group. Its involvement in partnerships including the Local Economic Partnership, Labour Market Partnership and Creative Bangor continues to strengthen connections between business, community and the arts.
Looking ahead, the organisation is exploring opportunities to refurbish and expand its Innotec site, further enhancing the infrastructure available to support local enterprise. At the same time, it is investing in the continued development of its training and mentoring brand, Venture, built around the themes of Create, Collaborate and Cultivate. This will include the launch of a new programme of workshops and initiatives throughout 2026, designed to create an engaging space for entrepreneurs to connect, learn and progress.
Lynne Vance, Chief Executive of North Down Development Organisation, said: “For over four decades, North Down Development Organisation has been committed to supporting entrepreneurs and businesses to grow, innovate and create lasting impact within their communities. Our work is rooted in providing not just space, but the support, skills and connections that businesses need to succeed at every stage of their journey.
“The strength of our team, our partnerships and our long-standing commitment to quality have enabled us to deliver meaningful results for the businesses we support, and we are proud to see that recognised across the sector.
“As we look to 2026, we are focused on the future; investing in our facilities, strengthening our Venture programme and continuing to create opportunities for collaboration and growth. By building on our experience and embracing new approaches, we are well positioned to support the next generation of entrepreneurs across North Down.”
