The Northern Ireland Small Business Loan Fund is administered by our fund management company, Ulster Community Finance Ltd, on behalf of Invest Northern Ireland.

Set up to provide access to finance for small businesses, sole traders and partnerships who are keen to develop their business but find it difficult to access funding through traditional sources. 

During 2018, Ulster Community Finance was awarded the contract for the second Northern Ireland Small Business Loan Fund. With the loan support level now increased to £100,000 the new Fund has the potential to lend over £9million to local SMEs, helping them to optimise their potential through investment.

Copeland Distillery 

Brand Values Secures 390 Backers and Funding for New Premises.

Started in the summer of 2016, following a successful crowdfunding campaign organised by Founder Gareth Irvine. Gareth secured funds from over 390 backers based solely on the brand values and story and in return for bottles of gin and other Copeland rewards.

The Northern Ireland Small Business Loan Fund has helped Copeland Distillery in the next stage of its development, enabling the business to build permanent new premises which house a new distillery, visitor centre and events space. The facility will enable the business to increase its product range and will create employment in additional sectors such as retail and events.

This new distillery is located in the harbour town of Donaghadee. It overlooks the scenic Copeland Islands and lighthouse, from which the brand takes its name.