On our brand new series of podcasts we kick off with two brand new guests.

Aveen McVeigh is the Head of regeneration and Business Development with Newry, Mourne & Down District Council.

And from the Maiden City we are joined by the founder of the brand new Derry City Bus Tours, Ciaran Devine.

Aveen is currently the lead person within Newry Mourne & Down for the Go Succeed Programme.

Ciaran came through the programme after having a strong and well founded business idea based on his experience with Visit Derry, Ciaran signed up and received free mentoring and financial support that allowed him to set the wheels in motion on his fabulous immersive concept.

Go Succeed & Derry City Bus Tours – Supporting a Great Business Idea

The conversation highlights the journey of Derry City Bus Tours, a local company offering immersive guided tours around Derry City, showcasing its rich history and cultural heritage.

Key Points Discussed:

Business Concept & Vision:

Ciaran shares the inspiration behind creating a tour business that would offer locals and tourists an in-depth look at the city’s historical landmarks, while also providing a unique, personal experience. The vision was to create an inclusive, community-centered business that would allow visitors to explore Derry’s most iconic sites in a fun and informative way.

Role of Go Succeed:

1. Aveen explains how Go Succeed played a crucial role in turning Ciarans vision into a reality. She outlines the specific support they received, including business mentorship, funding advice, and strategic planning. Go Succeed’s guidance helped Ciaran refine the business model and structure, ensuring he was well-prepared to launch successfully.

Overcoming Challenges:

1. Ciaran discusses some of the challenges he faced in the early stages—such as navigating the complexities of required certifications and establishing partnerships. He explains how Go Succeed’s resources, such as networking opportunities and marketing strategies, provided valuable tools to tackle these obstacles.

The Impact of Support:

1. Both Go Succeed and Derry City Bus Tours emphasise the importance of having a strong support system when starting a business. Ciaran credits Go Succeed for not only helping him secure financial backing but also for offering ongoing support as they scaled the business.

The episode highlights how Go Succeed’s tailored support can empower local entrepreneurs and help turn promising ideas into successful businesses. It showcases the value of collaboration, mentorship, and community-driven entrepreneurship in building a sustainable, impactful business

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.