Thirteen members of Lisburn Chamber of Commerce, including president Ruth Young, visited South Eastern Regional College's Lisburn Campus. They met Emma Finney, head of business engagement, and Roger Duncan, campus manager.

Kelly Donnelly and Pamela Kelly, business development managers, presented on training and innovation services. These include fully funded courses tailored to company needs, plus upskilling and reskilling options for individuals.

Visitors toured kitchens, salons and workshops. They spoke with tutors and observed facilities in operation.

In Ballynahinch, SERC hosted an innovation session on 21 April at Millbrook Lodge Hotel. Representatives from 20 local businesses attended a networking breakfast and showcase of projects.

The event aligned with World Creative and Innovation Day. It received support from the Department for Economy-funded Connected programme to share industry knowledge.

Pam Kelly stated that the session targeted small and medium enterprises new to innovation. She noted available aids like InnovateUs, one-to-one advisory sessions, Innovation Vouchers from Invest NI, and Knowledge Transfer Partnerships from Innovate UK.

Matt Gillespie of Urban Excel and Amy Kelly of Amy Kelly Gardening described their use of SERC support for business growth.