4 Accepted in Part

SMEs are the dominant business structure in Northern Ireland.

Recommendation
SMEs are the dominant business structure in Northern Ireland. If they are to innovate, take risks and build economic growth in NI, they need specific support, particularly in navigating dual market access to the EU and UK internal markets. Currently, the multiple bodies providing support in different areas may be confusing matters rather than helping. We welcome the Government’s commitment to establish the one stop shop 29 recommended in the Murphy Review, but there should be a mechanism that is wider in scope, creating a central hub for business support. (Conclusion, Paragraph 33)
Government Response Summary
The government notes the committee's conclusion and confirms the Northern Ireland Business Support Service will act as a 'One Stop Shop' providing tailored digital regulatory advice for SMEs moving products, with core functionality operational in the 2026–27 financial year.
Government Response
Accepted in Part
HM Government Accepted in Part
We note the Committee’s conclusion concerning the need to consolidate existing business support mechanisms and the Committee’s welcome for the Government’s commitment to establish a One Stop Shop. The Northern Ireland Business Support Service will act as a centralised ‘One Stop Shop’ for regulatory advice – aimed at SMEs. It will provide tailored digital regulatory advice for businesses moving their products; accessible information on the applicable rules; online step-by-step guides on moving goods; and a no casework resolution service to provide assistance, particularly for complex cases. Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State Matthew Patrick recently attended business roundtables at Catalyst to talk directly with entrepreneurs and SMEs in Northern Ireland’s innovation economy. The discussions focused on how these businesses interact with the Industrial Strategy, offering practical feedback on providing more targeted support to help them grow. The expertise demonstrated reinforces the strength of local talent and provides a clear framework to refine the strategy, ensuring small firms receive the necessary backing to grow and compete internationally. The Cabinet Office is working closely with relevant Departments, including DBT on the precise delivery model for the service and the component parts within it. Our objective remains to have core functionality operational within the 2026–27 financial year, with the funding announced at budget commencing at the start of the year. The delivery model for the Service is currently being established. We will also continue to work closely with business organisations and stakeholder groups to help shape the upcoming service.
Addressee Bodies
Northern Ireland Executive
Northern Ireland Office
Timeline
Recommendation age 0.4 yrs
Report published 23 Mar 2026