News

Derry and Strabane Celebrates Entrepreneurship During Global Entrepreneurship Week

2 November 2026

An exciting programme of events celebrating entrepreneurship, supporting local businesses and helping people turn business ideas into reality will take place across the Derry City and Strabane District from Monday 16 to Friday 20 November as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week 2026.

The programme will offer practical advice, networking opportunities and business support, with events covering digital marketing, inclusive entrepreneurship, ethnic minority business support and the celebration of local business success.

Kicking off on Monday 16 November, Stop Scrolling, Start Watching: Creating Content That Actually Works will offer practical insights into creating engaging digital content. Hosted by the Go Succeed Start team and facilitated by Aimee Lowry and Strabane Enterprise Agency, the masterclass will help businesses make their content more effective.

On Tuesday 17 November, Diverse Communities Meet Business Opportunities will bring together entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners from ethnic minority backgrounds to explore business support, networking and opportunities to start or grow an enterprise. Delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council in collaboration with Enterprise North West and Go Succeed, the event will feature success stories and practical advice from local entrepreneurs.

Wednesday 18 November will see the local winners of The Ultimate Pitch represent the area at the competition final, following the success of the Derry and Strabane heat, where a social app took the top prize.

On Thursday 19 November, Our Town, Our Success will celebrate local businesses and community achievement at North West Regional College’s Strabane Campus.  The programme concludes on Friday 20 November with STARTABILITY: Empowering Entrepreneurship, Removing Barriers at the Destined Building in Derry. Delivered in collaboration with Enterprise North West and Go Succeed, the event will focus on supporting people with disabilities or long-term health conditions who are considering self-employment. Speakers will share their entrepreneurial experiences, while specialist organisations will offer guidance on starting a business and accessing appropriate support.

Kevin O’Connor, Head of Business at Derry City and Strabane District Council, said: “Global Entrepreneurship Week is a great opportunity to celebrate the ambition and talent of our local business community while highlighting the support available to help people take their next steps.

“We want to encourage anyone with a business idea, those looking to grow an existing enterprise, and people interested in exploring self-employment to come along. Whether you are just starting out or looking for new opportunities, these events offer a chance to gain practical advice, make valuable connections and find out how the right support can help you succeed.”

Together, the events highlight the breadth of entrepreneurial talent across the Derry and Strabane District and the range of support available to help people at every stage of their business journey, from developing an initial idea to growing an established enterprise.

For further information please visit: https://go-succeed.com/events/