Nicola McCormick
Name: Nicola McCormick
Business Name: Pet Haven
Age: 34
Business Location: Bessbrook, Newry
Length of time in business: 3 ½ Years
What were you doing before you started this business?
I worked in the accounts department of a building firm.
What resources did you have to begin with?
I had recently got married and built a new home on my husband’s family farm. There were some unused buildings which I felt could be used in my new business.
Why did you choose the type of business that you did?
It goes back to when I was at school – a friend’s parents owned boarding kennels and I started to work there after school. I really enjoyed working with the animals and always had fond memories of taking dogs for walks on long summer evenings. I always had dogs of my own and would have spent a lot of time grooming them.
What prompted you to go ahead and start the business?
There were a number of things.
In September 2004 I had read an article in the paper about a CAFRE Diversification Challenge Business Planning programme starting locally and contacted Joe Mulholland, Rural Enterprise Lecturer, Greenmount Campus. I got a place on the programme and became aware that if my business idea was viable that there could be funding available to help me get started. I completed the training which was fantastic. It took me through all the parts of a business plan that were needed and helped me produce projections for my business. It also introduced me to the Rural Enterprise Advisors who were available for one to one help and support if needed.
In the spring of 2005 I had a completed business plan which I was confident showed that my business idea could make money. I used the plan and applied for planning permission and for funding from the EU Peace & Reconciliation Programme – Measure 5.6.
I was delighted when I was offered the funding but it took until September 2005 before my planning permission was granted. Once this was in place I renovated an existing building and fitted it out with kennels and equipment before opening for business in March 2006.
What have you found to be the benefits of starting your own business?
It has allowed me to work from home and to work around my husband and two children. It is my own business and I am the boss and I can plan work at a pace which suits my commitments. It has also increased the value of our assets on the farm and I have gained valuable business skills which I hope to use in the future in other business ventures.
What advice would give anyone thinking of starting a new business?
Take time to plan and research what you are going to do.
Use the free help and assistance that DARD and CAFRE have to offer.
Do something which you enjoy and find rewarding.
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