A new initiative aimed at introducing women to the idea of setting up their own business has been launched.

Fermanagh and Omagh Labour Market Partnership, in partnership with Omagh Enterprise Company and Fermanagh Enterprise, launched a new Female Entrepreneur Programme in late March.

The programme focuses on tapping into the entrepreneurial potential of women who are ready to start up a new business from within the district.

Participants can learn from the best with highly-experienced trainers, mentors, and role models available to guide them on the important steps to get their business started.

The programme is open to economically inactive women who may receive up to £1,500 start-up costs relevant to their business idea.

The Labour Market Partnership is a province-wide approach developed by the Department for Communities which creates targeted employment action plans for council areas and allows for collaboration at a local and regional level to support people towards and into work.

Councillor Barry McElduff, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, said: “As lead partner of the Labour Market Partnership, the Council is excited to see all the opportunities that this initiative will open for women who have a vision to harness their skills to be entrepreneurs starting a business.

“I would like to encourage any female from within the district who has an idea of becoming an entrepreneur to avail of this excellent opportunity.”

Dr. Nicholas O Shiel, Chief Executive Officer, Omagh Enterprise Company, said: “The Female Entrepreneur Programme is all about reaching out to and supporting women locally who are economically inactive and want to become entrepreneurs and build new, innovative start-up businesses.

“We have a strong track record of supporting women in business, so we are proud to be involved with its delivery.”

John Treacy, Manager, Fermanagh Enterprise Ltd, also added: “This programme is an exciting opportunity for women who are not currently in employment, [giving them] an opportunity to return to work, to get started with their new business idea from all sectors, who will benefit from free support, mentoring and advice from initial contact right through to starting their business adventure.”

For further information and registration, contact Mary MacRory at Omagh Enterprise Company, telephone 028 8224 9494, or email mary.macrory@omaghenterprise.co.uk.