Ormeau Business Park’s Post

We had the pleasure of attending the Time to Change launch event at The Long Gallery, Stormont earlier today hosted by Ulster University Business School and Ethnic Minority Employment & Entrepreneurship Network : EMEEN - NI. The event featured a diverse line-up of speakers from various sectors of the business community, including a panel of truly inspiring entrepreneurs. It was a testament to the vibrancy and potential of entrepreneurship and the growing entrepreneurial spark across Northern Ireland. The event’s purpose was to enable policymakers along with community and business representatives to share the progress to date on the report, discuss the key recommendations, and explore how we can address perceived barriers faced by ethnic minority entrepreneurs. The Report ‘Time to Change Report: A Blueprint for Advancing the UK’s Ethnic Minority Businesses’, is commissioned by NatWest Group and prepared by the Centre for Research in Ethnic Minority Entrepreneurship (Crème) at Aston University. Speaking at the event, Economy Minister Conor Murphy said that his Department will work to develop solutions that unlock the potential that exists within entrepreneurs. Enterprise Northern Ireland are proud to be a part of the proactive business support entrepreneurial ecosystem in Northern Ireland. Inclusion is in the DNA of the Enterprise Northern Ireland network. We continue to accelerate towards ensuring more ethnic minority entrepreneurs can avail of mainstream support and that any perceived barriers can be overcome. Enterprise Northern Ireland are committed to providing the right support at the right time to businesses and entrepreneurs. 💫The promotion of entrepreneurship in Northern Ireland isn't just about economic growth—it's also about fostering social inclusion. 💫

We are excited to be named to Miami University’s 2023 RedHawk50 list. The inaugural list recognizes the 50 fastest growing private companies owned or led by Miami University alumni. Orangewood Partners' own Alan Goldfarb, Founder & Managing Partner; Neil Goldfarb, Managing Partner; and Chris Crouse, Associate attended Miami University. Orangewood’s success in partnering with founder-led businesses, management teams and entrepreneurs to create long-term growth could not have been possible without the skills honed at Miami University. We also want to extend our appreciation to Jenny Darroch and the Miami University Farmer School of Business. Congratulations to all those RedHawks recognized: https://lnkd.in/gnqVyeJN #RedHawk50 #PrivateEquity #Entrepreneurship #MiamiOH This award is presented by Miami University, a third party unaffiliated with Orangewood Partners. RedHawk50 is an Inc. 5000-style program that recognizes the 50 fastest-growing Miami RedHawk-owned or Miami RedHawk-led businesses in the world annually and provides a forum to recognize, celebrate, and honor the Miamians who have led them. There were 525 nominations reflecting 360 unique Miamian-founded or led businesses received for consideration this year. Orangewood Partners does not know the details of the methodology by which selection was made, which may include subjective factors. Orangewood Partners did not provide compensation for this award. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Awarded 3/15/2024.

Belfast’s entrepreneurial scene is as rich and smooth as its whiskey! Just wrapped up an inspiring week arranged by the excellent team of Queen's University Belfast and Start for Future, where we gathered with researchers from across Europe to explore the power of entrepreneurship in ecosystems. Key insights into why entrepreneurship is so crucial for Belfast: 🏛️ A captivating presentation by Margie McKay, of Belfast City Council, at the iconic City Hall (an architectural gem!) showed how 𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐦𝐲, 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐁𝐞𝐥𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭’𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐈𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐭𝐡. They nationally pro-actively arrange support, referrals to partners and access to funds for start-ups, with extra focus on underrepresented groups. Meanwhile we got our sweet tooth covered with scones and traybakes by a social enterprise. 💷 Ulster Bank provides a free Entrepreneur Accelerator to support new entrepreneurs. Their hubs are throughout the UK, including Belfast. A bold move that wasn’t easy to sell but 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬, 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐦𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐊 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐮𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞. 🌎 Given Belfast’s unique political landscape, 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐩 𝐥𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥, as the local market quickly hits its limits. Often a step taken at a later stage in the start-up growth process is quickly integrated in businesses in Belfast. From the history-laden streets to the cutting-edge ideas shared, Belfast was the perfect backdrop for igniting fresh entrepreneurial energy across Europe. Now onto our computers back home to further write on project proposals in our EU consortia. Might turn on some folk music to keep the spirit going. #Belfast #Entrepreneurship #LocalEconomy #InternationalTrade #Ecosystems

Curious about Enterprise Ireland's New Frontiers program? 🤔 Check out this insightful article by Enterprise Ireland's New Frontiers programme Manager, Paula Carroll, to learn how it's the perfect journey for early-stage founders! 💡🌱🚀 #NewFrontiers #Entrepreneurship #StartupJourney"

Wales has seen a record-breaking increase in entrepreneurial activity, with new figures from the 2023 Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Wales report showing the highest levels of early-stage business rates on record.  Entrepreneurship among young people in Wales has seen a remarkable rise, with 14.0% of young people now engaged in early-stage business activities, up from 2.0% in 2002.   More information: https://lnkd.in/eVrzwtgA #DBF #DeesideBusinessForum #GlobalEntrepreneurshipMonitor #WalesBusiness #WelshGovernment

Entrepreneurship is vital for the growth of the UK economy. Start-ups and early-stage businesses help to create jobs, boost productivity, and encourage innovation. According to our new research, it’s clear that digital-savvy Gen Z have a fantastic entrepreneurial spirit, but the qualities you need to succeed on your own aren’t bound by age. Entrepreneurship is driven by passion, curiosity, and the desire to create something meaningful. Some develop these attributes early on, often sparked by a need to solve a problem. While others may discover a business drive later in life, perhaps after spotting a gap in the market. At Santander UK we are proud to support those that are just starting out through the Santander X Awards, giving entrepreneurs of all ages the opportunity to win funding and support to take their business to the next level. Today we announced the 100 shortlisted businesses that will make it through to the semi-final pitching heats. I can’t wait to watch these businesses learn and grow throughout the process, and once again being part of the judging panel at the national final on 14 November!

🌟 Reflecting on a Day of Learning and Inspiration at the Ethnic Minority Innovators Grant Competition Seminar! 🌟 Yesterday, I had the privilege of participating in a transformative seminar organized by Queen's University Belfast, Go Succeed, MRANI, and Techstart Ventures. The event was a deep dive into the world of entrepreneurship, tailored to uplift and empower ethnic minority innovators like myself. Major Themes and Messages: Entrepreneurial Support: The conference highlighted the extensive support system available in Northern Ireland, from university programs to initiatives by Go Succeed that provide essential mentoring, funding, and networking opportunities. Inclusivity and Recognition: We celebrated the power of diversity with programs like the Mammoth Supercommission Awards, which recognize achievements across various ethnic backgrounds and sectors. Practical Advice: Seasoned entrepreneurs shared their journeys, offering actionable advice on leveraging local resources and the importance of adaptability in the entrepreneurial landscape. Networking and Idea Sharing: The event facilitated vibrant discussions, enabling participants to refine and enhance their business concepts through meaningful exchanges. Insights from Panel Discussion with James Ayo, Eileen Chan-Hu 陳愛蓮, and Azhar Murtuza: Evolution of Business Models: We explored how businesses can evolve to meet market demands and community needs, emphasizing flexibility and innovation. Challenges in Entrepreneurship: The panelists were candid about the obstacles they faced, from funding to institutional barriers, highlighting the critical role of resilience. Importance of Support Systems: A consistent theme was the indispensable role of networks and support systems in ensuring business success. Vision and Purpose: Maintaining a clear vision while adapting strategies was stressed as essential for long-term success. This seminar was not only an educational experience but also a profound reminder of the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit thriving within our community. A huge thank you to Queen's University Belfast, Go Succeed NI, Minorities Recognition Awards NI , and Techstart Ventures LLP for organising this enlightening event. #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #DiversityInBusiness #BusinessSupport #Networking #StartUpCulture

Over the past four months, I’ve been pleased to work with Taylor Bishop Scott, Jessica Pugel and Kylie King, Ph.D. of the Entrepreneurship Research to Policy Collaboration. This includes providing responses to elected officials’ requests for input on entrepreneurship policy, and is made possible through funding through Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. Thank you DeAngela B. “Supporting Micro and Small Business Entrepreneurship,” co-authored with Dr. King, included recommendations on fostering informal networks, access to small business credit, and the importance of digital tools. “How Entrepreneurs Find Resources,” included the problems entrepreneurs face when evaluating digital and local resources, stage-specific resources they need, the changing context for entrepreneurs support services, and recommendations for policy that supports entrepreneur’s as they work to more efficiently evaluate resource prioritization. This work includes dissemination of these factsheets to members of the executive and legislative branches of government, including members of the U.S. Congress and thousands of state legislators. These factsheets are informed by empirical peer-reviewed research, and our first-hand experience working with emerging and established founders. The community engagement aspects of our work is only made possible through those who have given their time and talent. Together we are breaking down barriers to entrepreneurial opportunities, and spreading the good news: Charles P. Ajemian, Lauren Anesta, Olivia Aronson, David Barrett, Oheneba Berko, Charletta Darville, Charolette Davis, Matthew Dewald, Kourtney Ennis, Emily Griffey Ewees, Alex Hamrick, Elsie Harper-Anderson, Ph.D., Cody J., Simi Jung, Evanthia Karageorge, Mike King, Bonnie Krenz, Kim Mahan, CISSP, Courtney Malveaux, John Marin, Andi (Hammack) Minor, CMP, Barry Moore, Sripath Morishetty, Gopa Nair, Israel Ngombo, Miguel Quiñones, Julieta Rubis, Swati Sachan, Katie Sinclair, Sidarta Tanu, Praveen Vadlamani, Rick Wildes, Ian Young, ...as well as all of our other event facilitators, speakers, mentors, and judges. #entrepreneurship #business #technology

Over the past four months, I’ve been pleased to work with Taylor Bishop Scott, Jessica Pugel and Kylie King, Ph.D. of the Entrepreneurship Research to Policy Collaboration. This includes providing responses to elected officials’ requests for input on entrepreneurship policy, and is made possible through funding through Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. Thank you DeAngela B. “Supporting Micro and Small Business Entrepreneurship,” co-authored with Dr. King, included recommendations on fostering informal networks, access to small business credit, and the importance of digital tools. “How Entrepreneurs Find Resources,” included the problems entrepreneurs face when evaluating digital and local resources, stage-specific resources they need, the changing context for entrepreneurs support services, and recommendations for policy that supports entrepreneur’s as they work to more efficiently evaluate resource prioritization. This work includes dissemination of these factsheets to members of the executive and legislative branches of government, including members of the U.S. Congress and thousands of state legislators. These factsheets are informed by empirical peer-reviewed research, and our first-hand experience working with emerging and established founders. The community engagement aspects of our work is only made possible through those who have given their time and talent. Together we are breaking down barriers to entrepreneurial opportunities, and spreading the good news: Charles P. Ajemian, Lauren Anesta, Olivia Aronson, David Barrett, Oheneba Berko, Charletta Darville, Charolette Davis, Matthew Dewald, Kourtney Ennis, Emily Griffey Ewees, Alex Hamrick, Elsie Harper-Anderson, Ph.D., Cody J., Simi Jung, Evanthia Karageorge, Mike King, Bonnie Krenz, Kim Mahan, CISSP, Courtney Malveaux, John Marin, Andi (Hammack) Minor, CMP, Barry Moore, Sripath Morishetty, Gopa Nair, Israel Ngombo, Miguel Quiñones, Julieta Rubis, Swati Sachan, Katie Sinclair, Sidarta Tanu, Praveen Vadlamani, Rick Wildes, Ian Young, ...as well as all of our other event facilitators, speakers, mentors, and judges. #entrepreneurship #business #technology

South African Entrepreneurs! Are you ready to take your business to the next level? 🚀💼 The 2024 Nedbank Pitch & Polish competition is here, and it's your golden opportunity to showcase your innovative ideas and business prowess to the world! 🌍✨ Entries are officially open, and you're just a pitch away from potentially winning an incredible prize worth R1 million! Yes, you heard that right - R1 million! The lucky winner will receive a cash injection of R650,000 to grow their business and a R350,000 bursary for a two-year business development programme with Africa's top incubator, Raizcorp. 🏆💰 Alan Shannon from Nedbank shares the excitement, highlighting how the Pitch & Polish programme has unveiled some of South Africa's brightest entrepreneurial talents, helping them scale their businesses through mentorship and funding. This year, it could be you! 🌟 Remember last year's winner, Tshireletso Mokate, aka 'The Camping Guy'? His advice to you is to soak in every moment of the competition. It's not just about winning the prize; it's about the invaluable entrepreneurial journey and the learnings you'll gather along the way - those are the real treasures. 💎🛤️ This competition is more than just a battle for the top spot. It's a celebration of innovation, a test of grit, and most importantly, a chance for you to polish your pitch to perfection. From the initial entries to the final showdown, it's an exhilarating ride with a wildcard twist that you won't want to miss. 🎢🃏 And let's not forget about the audience! By tuning into the live-streamed episodes, you'll not only be rooting for your favorite contestants but also stand a chance to win some exciting audience prizes. 🎉📺 So, if you're an entrepreneur with a registered business or a sole proprietor with a big dream, this is your call to action. Visit pitchandpolish.com to enter before the deadline on Friday, 5 April 2024. Don't let this chance slip through your fingers; your business could be the next big thing thanks to the Nedbank Pitch & Polish competition. Let's make it happen! 🌈💪 #NedbankPitchAndPolish #Entrepreneurship #BusinessCompetition #SouthAfricanEntrepreneurs