Africa is now home to several of the world’s fastest growing economies and is becoming a continent to watch, leading the Global Trade and Investment Agenda.

Small to medium enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of our economy providing up to three quarters of all private sector jobs and turnover. Regardless of size or stage of development, to scale to the next level SMEs need funding to achieve growth.

Invest NI showcased Northern Ireland’s world-leading aerospace and defence sector expertise, promoted collaboration and sustainability and launched the new UK Defence playbook at this year’s Farnborough International Air Show.

Considering the continuing challenges for both NI businesses and us, the results we are presenting are testament to the resilience of those businesses we have worked with, and our own team’s drive and determination.

To further support Northern Ireland companies in China, Invest Northern Ireland has undertaken a series of research projects to inform and identify high potential opportunities in the region.

Deciding to start a business is a big deal…. you need to put yourself and your business idea out there, test the market and then say to the world "this is what I have to offer" and ask customers to literally buy it!

In the last year, food and drink companies across Northern Ireland have been working hard to achieve success in the face of ever-changing circumstances, including EU Exit, emergence from the pandemic, and the conflict in Ukraine.

John Hood, Invest Northern Ireland’s Director of Food & Drink reflects on a challenging year for businesses and provides a flavour of how the agency will continue to support the sector in 2020.