Makers Support Programme
One-to-one mentoring, support, and retail opportunities for makers and artisan food businesses.
Who it is for
This programme is for makers across the creative and artisan food sectors in the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council area.
It is for both early-stage and established makers.
Support you can get
The Makers Support Programme helps makers across the creative and artisan food sectors build sustainable businesses.
The programme includes three strands of support.
One-to-one mentoring
The programme offers tailored advice on finance, marketing, business planning, and legal requirements. Mentoring will be delivered through the Go Succeed programme and aims to help businesses find new customers, enter new markets, and develop online sales.
To register interest, contact markets@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk.
Makers Support Forum
This is a dedicated networking and learning space where artisan founders can connect, share experiences, and access practical resources. This includes guidance on product development, branding, and scaling a business, as well as opportunities to showcase work and collaborate.
To register interest, contact markets@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk.
Pop-up shop initiative
This is a short-term retail opportunity for new and existing makers to test products and reach new customers in a prime retail space - without committing to a long lease.
Participants will benefit from:
- affordable short-term rental options (for up to one year) as part of a pilot scheme
- flexible terms, with bookings from as little as three months
- a prime retail location to increase brand visibility
- ongoing support from local enterprise agencies, including Armagh Business Centre, Banbridge Business Centre, and Craigavon Industrial Development Organisation (CIDO)
Applications for the pop-up shop initiative close at 4pm on Friday 5 June 2026.
How to apply
To take part, read the guidance notes and express your interest online.
Support organisers
- Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council