ASPIRE is a cross border, graduate based business improvement programme which is aimed at micro business (enterprises with fewer than 10 persons) within the East Border Region (EBR). EBR is a local authority led network, spanning seven local authority areas in Northern Ireland and three in the Republic of Ireland.

Further information on East Border Region and its suite of programmes and publications can be found at www.eastborderregion.com.

The ASPIRE programme is being funded by the INTERREG IVA programme, Priority 2, Theme 1 (D).

The ASPIRE programme aims to promote sustainable economic and social development by developing indigenous micro businesses which will deliver an employer led solution which strengthens management, leadership and capacity in East Border Region businesses through mentoring and employment of graduates. It also aims to introduce small businesses to the benefits of graduate employment and to encourage cross border interaction and trading, whilst improving the employment prospects for graduates, developing graduate skills and ensuring that micro businesses make the best use of graduate skills.

Banbridge District Council has led the development of the proposal for ASPIRE in partnership with EBR and these two organisations will lead the project board/steering committee that will also include the following Councils:

— Down District Council,

— Newry and Mourne District Council,

— Louth County Council,

— Monaghan County Council,

— Craigavon Borough Council,

— Armagh City & District Council,

— North Down Borough Council,

— Ards Borough Council.