Archibald announces new £2.3m programme to support small business growth

Date published: 12 October 2026

Developed by Invest NI, Groundwork for Growth is a £2.3m programme that expects to support 240 new or existing micro, small and medium-sized businesses over the next three years.

Launching the new programme, the Minister said: 

“Micro-businesses and SMEs play a vital role in strengthening our economy. Invest NI’s new Groundwork for Growth programme is designed to help these ambitious businesses build strong foundations for the future.

“The programme is aimed at businesses at the beginning of their growth journey who are ready to take their first steps towards developing sales in new markets. The combination of financial support, practical workshop advice and tailored guidance from the Invest NI team will create opportunities for micro-businesses and SMEs across all parts of the north, helping to build stronger local economies.

“It is also an important example of Invest NI's transformation, helping to broaden the range of businesses that can benefit from Invest NI support and ensuring that ambitious businesses can engage with Invest NI at an earlier stage in their development.”

The programme is designed for businesses that are not currently part of Invest NI’s client portfolio. In doing so, it supports Invest NI's ambition to widen its business base and engage with a broader range of growth-focused businesses across the north. Businesses accepted onto the Groundwork for Growth programme will become Invest NI clients and receive up to £15,000 of support to help them develop their growth potential and build sales in new markets.

This support can be used for product and business development, marketing, market development and addressing training needs within the business. Participants will also be invited to take part in a capability-building workshop focused on developing the knowledge and skills needed to explore new international markets.

Alison Currie, Chief Development Officer at Invest NI, said: 

“With 93% of investments made by SMEs in 2025/26, we’re seeing encouraging signs of businesses across Northern Ireland investing in innovation, skills and exports with our support.

“Groundwork for Growth will allow us to connect with ambitious businesses earlier than ever before, supporting them as they begin their growth journey. The programme will help businesses across Northern Ireland build strong foundations, develop new skills, refine their products and markets, and set a clear path for growth beyond Northern Ireland.

“It will give businesses the confidence and capability to take their first steps towards long-term growth. I’d encourage any small businesses to see if they are eligible to apply.”

Groundwork for Growth is open for applications. For full details, eligibility criteria and how to apply visit Groundwork for Growth