Niamh Designs was honoured to welcome ABC Lord Mayor Sarah Duffy and Deputy Lord Mayor Kyle Savage to her studio in June as part of their visits to local businesses supported by the DAERA Rural Business Grant Programme.
This programme, delivered locally by Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council, provides vital financial support to rural businesses, helping them to invest in new equipment, develop innovative products, and strengthen the local economy. For Niamh Designs, the funding has been transformative. It has enabled the purchase of a state-of-the-art multi-needle embroidery machine, an investment that will increase production capacity, boost efficiency, and allow the business to continue growing to meet international demand for bespoke embroidered jackets.
The visit was also an opportunity to showcase the impact of this type of support on creative enterprises. By investing in local makers and entrepreneurs, the Council and the Rural Business Grant Programme help ensure that rural businesses not only survive but thrive, creating opportunities for employment, innovation, and global reach from right here in Co Armagh.
It was a pleasure to welcome back Rónán McNally and Laura Skelton, whose guidance and support throughout the grant process have been invaluable. Their work alongside the Council makes a real difference to small businesses like Niamh Designs.
Niamh Designs is proud to be part of the Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council area and grateful for the initiatives that continue to champion rural entrepreneurship, strengthen communities, and showcase the talent and creativity that Northern Ireland has to offer.
