Food and Drink Exploratory Business Support Programme 2026-27

Overview

Ards and North Down Tourism and Economic Development teams wish to gather your feedback and views on a new food and drink business support programme.

Following the success of last year’s ANDBC Food & Drink Business Support Programme—which provided tailored one-to-one mentoring, interactive workshops, and a practical familiarisation trip—the programme helped participating SMEs develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence required to strengthen their businesses and position themselves for sustainable long-term growth.

Clear outcomes were achieved in areas such as enhanced branding and marketing capability, peer-to-peer learning, and the development of practical business strategies, demonstrating the programme’s effectiveness in supporting the food and drink sector across the Borough.

This survey will help us shape a new business support programme that reflects the current needs of your business. Our aim is to provide the knowledge and tools required to support you in scaling and growing your business.

The programme will run from July 2026 to February 2027.  There is no cost to participate, but full commitment to all elements of the programme is required.

The theme of the programme will be determined from responses and feedback from this survey.

Eligibility:
You do not need to be a member of Taste Ards and North Down to take part in this programme. However, your business must be located within the Ards and North Down Borough Council area.

Why your views matter

Your input matters — please let us know your interest and what you need from this programme.