AI and the Future of Work in Northern Ireland
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has launched a new foresight study exploring the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Northern Ireland’s economy and workforce. The report, AI and the Future of Work in Northern Ireland, produced by Matrix (The NI Science Industry Panel), highlights both the opportunities and challenges presented by AI, while setting […]
New Support for Entrepreneurs from Underrepresented Groups
Entrepreneurs in Omagh and the surrounding area now have access to a new UK-wide programme designed to help business founders from underrepresented backgrounds raise investment and scale their businesses. Breakthrough Founders, funded by Innovate UK, provides a fully funded pathway to investment with expert training, access to investors, and a supportive community. The programme is […]
Preparing for the UK’s New One IPO Patents Service
The UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) is preparing to launch its new One IPO Patents Service in early 2026 — a major digital upgrade that will change how patents are managed across the UK. For businesses in Omagh and the surrounding area, this means a more streamlined way to apply for, update, and manage patents […]
Omagh Businesses and The UK Shift to New Technology
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has released the UK Innovation Adoption and Diffusion Survey 2025, the first of its kind in the country. With responses from over 4,500 organisations, the survey explores how businesses are adopting and sharing new technologies — and what that means for productivity and growth. What it means […]
Companies House WebFiling Moving to GOV.UK One Login from 13 October 2025
Businesses across Omagh and the surrounding area should prepare for an important change coming this autumn. From 13 October 2025, Companies House will require all WebFiling users to sign in using GOV.UK One Login. This new system is designed to make it easier and more secure for company directors, business owners, and administrators to access […]
£7,500 Rural Business Development Grants Now Open – Apply by 30 October
Great news for rural businesses in Omagh and across the district – DAERA Minister Andrew Muir MLA has announced that the Rural Business Development Grant Scheme (RBDGS) will open for applications on Thursday 25 September 2025. This scheme, funded through DAERA’s Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Programme and delivered in partnership with local […]
£5,000 Innovation Support for Omagh Businesses
These vouchers can help local businesses: ✅ Create or improve products, services, or processes✅ Access specialist knowledge on new materials and technologies✅ Solve problems using cutting-edge research and expertise For Omagh entrepreneurs and SMEs, this is a practical way to bring innovation into your business – even if you don’t have the technology, expertise, or […]
Rural Micro Capital Grant Now Open – Apply for up to £2,000
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has launched the 2025/26 Rural Micro Capital Grant Scheme (RMCGS), supporting rural community groups, voluntary organisations, and Social Economy Enterprises. Grants of £500–£2,000 are available for projects addressing poverty and social isolation in rural areas. Eligible projects can include: Upgrading or modernising buildings or equipment Investing […]
New Online Academy to Help Local Businesses Trade Globally with Confidence
Businesses in Omagh and across Northern Ireland now have the chance to sharpen their international trade skills thanks to a new online academy launched by the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Running from September to December 2025, the programme offers a series of expert-led training sessions delivered via Zoom. Each 3-hour workshop takes […]
Omagh Businesses Urged to Act on New Packaging Waste Rules
Small businesses across Omagh and Northern Ireland are being reminded to check if they need to register and report their packaging data under new Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations. For the first time, companies with an annual turnover of more than £1 million and handling over 25 tonnes of packaging each year must record and […]