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We were delighted to learn that we are a finalist at the Social Enterprise NI Awards 2022 in the Consumer Facing Category.
We are honoured to be included in a group of six remarkable organisations doing great work here in Northern Ireland.
What do we do?
Naturally North Coast & Glens is a social enterprise that supports artisans by providing them with a venue where they can sell their products, connect with buyers face-to-face, develop their businesses, their skills sets, and their product lines. We support over 200 artisans every year, and we've seen many of them win awards, expand to open shops, start supplying trade, engage in e-commerce, moving on to the next step in their business development. It is encouraging to see how our traders develop their confidence, refine their products, and turn their passions into successful businesses. Many of the artisans we work with have great ideas and are brimming with talent, but they aren't all 'market traders.' Rather, they are bakers, crafters, artists, farmers, growers, producers, etc first, and often they need guidance and assistance to make the most of the markets where they sell their products. We give our traders' needs top priority and give them the support and guidance they require to make sure the markets and services we offer meet their individual needs. Our markets not only support start up businesses and enhance many significant local events, but they also breathe new life into both urban and rural areas by bringing more customers in, keeping them there longer, and increasing spend in the local area. We can all agree that human connection is more valuable than ever after two years of living in comparatively solitary circumstances. Markets serve as more than just places to shop; they also act as hubs of social interaction and community gatherings. They are vital within our local communities, their community value is as important as their econimic value. The deadline to cast a vote for Naturally North Coast and Glens is Mon 5th September at 9am. If you've benefited from our markets, our support, or simply enjoyed visiting them please consider us for a vote! #SocEntNIAwards22
