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FabLab digital programme to boost Global Entrepreneurship Week

FabLab digital programme to boost Global Entrepreneurship Week

The project is one of the key elements Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Global Entrepreneurship Week that are taking place this week, 12 and 16 November.

As part of Global Entrepreneurship Week Council is hosting a series of events in partnership with FabLab (Nerve Centre), Innovate NI and Enterprise NW, to showcase the great work being done by local innovators and job creators across the Council area.

Louise Breslin, Business Development Manager with Derry City and Strabane District Council said it was fantastic to have the FabLab on board to deliver such an innovative project that will really benefit local businesses.

She said: “This free programme will see local entrepreneurs collaborating with the FabLab team to learn about modern design and manufacturing techniques and how they can be applied to local businesses. The course is fully accredited at OCN Level 2 and will include technologies such as 3D design, Laser Cutting, CNC Milling and 3D printing, all with a specific focus on creative entrepreneurship.

John Peto Director of Education with the FabLab said the purpose of the programme is to encourage entrepreneurs to learn a range of new skills to enhance their businesses offering.

He said: “They will learn everything from prototyping of products to the creation of bespoke packaging, promotional and point of sale materials. These techniques will support them to both develop new products and services and add value to existing business.”

Once they have completed the Programme, participants will be able to avail of free access to the Fablab as part of its public access programme.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council Cllr John Boyle who is very supportive of the Global Entrepreneurship Week programme of events said the partnership between Council and the Fab Lab at the Nerve Centre is really positive news.

He said: “The opportunity for the Nerve Centre and Fablab to partner with Council’s business team and bring some of our brightest and best entrepreneurs into the lab is really exciting. The skills and techniques that they will develop can really make all the difference in taking their business ideas to the next level and we will learn enormously from their energy and creativity.”

Other events taking place as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week include a Techies In Residence event and a social entrepreneur pitching competition.

For more info on Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Global Entrepreneurship Week programme of events visit https://genglobal.org/global-find-event; #GEW2018.