Applications open for EU Trade Programme

Lisburn and Castlereagh businesses invited to unlock new export opportunities in Europe

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is inviting local businesses to explore new export opportunities in Europe through an EU Trade Programme with the option of trade missions to either the Czech Republic or the Netherlands.

Applications are now open for both trade missions, which are designed to:

• help growth-orientated businesses identify new market opportunities
• build strategic partnerships
• develop international trade links in their choice of two key European markets

Delivered in partnership with Northern Ireland Trade Consultants (NITC), the programme will provide participating businesses with tailored market intelligence, in-market promotion, bespoke business-to-business matchmaking and introductions to potential customers and partners.

Participants will also benefit from trade missions to Prague in December 2026 or the Randstad region of the Netherlands in January 2027.

Launch event

To launch the initiative, the Council will host a breakfast event at Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn, on Tuesday 15 September from 8.30am to 10am. Attending businesses will have the opportunity to hear directly from export specialists and gain insights into the opportunities available in both markets.

Following the launch event, participating businesses will be invited to attend one-to-one assessment meetings to discuss their international ambitions and suitability for the programme.

Successful applicants will be confirmed in October before commencing a programme of market research and trade development activity.

How to apply

To apply for the EU Trade Programme, register for an information session and confirm your eligibility.

First published 27 August 2026