The Gallaher Trust has opened applications for £400,000 in funding to support job creation and skills development projects in Ballymena for 2027. The call targets businesses, social enterprises and charities. Chairman Ian Paisley stated that the trust's past efforts show progress but more collaboration is needed to secure the town's economic future.

The funding announcement aligns with the Ballymena 400 - Building on Partnership and Progress event, set for Thursday 30 April at the Adair Arms Hotel. The gathering runs from 8:30am to 12pm. Participants from business, industry and the third sector will discuss the town's development.

Since 2017, the trust has invested £3.1 million in partner projects. Those efforts created 486 jobs, upskilled 1,700 adults and supported over 2,100 disadvantaged adults.

The event will spotlight the Northern Ireland Hospitality School, launched in 2021 by local hoteliers Eddie McKeever of the McKeever Group, Colin Johnston of Galgorm Collection and Ashley Douglas of the school. The school has graduated 230 students and secured private sector funding. Paisley described it as a model for other sectors.

Ballymena writer Declan Lawn, co-writer of the BBC drama Blue Lights, will join a discussion hosted by journalist Jo Scott on the town's evolution. Trustees Lauren McAteer and James Perry MBE support the initiative.

Organisations can register for the event via Eventbrite and apply for funding at the Gallaher Trust website.