Encouraging local businesses to network, make positive connections and make the most of online opportunities were the aims behind Fermanagh Biz Camp, which was held at Killyhevlin Business Centre on Tuesday.

One-to-one sessions with digital marketing specialists were in hot demand, with Fermanagh District Council’s Survive and Thrive Programme lead Noelle McAloon commenting: “There’s a definite online trend in Fermanagh at the minute, there was a massive waiting list for the digital marketing specialists.” She adds: “Everyone was asking about search engine optimisation, how to make their website better and how to use social media to better effect.” 120 local businesses attended the event throughout the day and reported that they enjoyed catching up with old colleagues and learning about selling on eBay. “It’s very much old school here. We like to keep things close to our chest and we don’t divulge things and that transfers into business,” Noelle comments. “We often think: ‘Why would I share my experience with other businesses because they may steal my idea’. Whereas, east of the province, more businesses are communication with one another in order to make their business stronger.” The speakers were Dara O’Neill, Managing Director of O’Neill Communications; Louise Leonard, General Manager at Westwood and Colm Courtney, Managing Director of Hybrid Mail Solutions.

“They were honest and forthright about their experiences,” says Noelle. “They were there to motivate and inspire and to encourage others to share their experience.”