Exciting new era has begun for famous old Ballina building

Moy Valley Resources joined in the celebrations last week to mark the official opening of IQ Ballina by Minister Dara Calleary, a project that aligns very closely with its success over the past three decades in promoting enterprise development across North Mayo and West Sligo A not-for-profit Ballina-based community development organisation, Moy Valley Resources, which serves the North Mayo and West Sligo region, partnered with Mayo County Council in 2018 to apply for funding for IQ Ballina under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund, and is now bringing its operational expertise to run this major new innovation quarter in Ballina town centre. The complex, formerly known as the Military Quarter, is owned by Mayo County Council.

This significant role for Moy Valley Resources at IQ Ballina builds on the three decades-plus experience in the area of enterprise development.

Moy Valley Resources employs almost 60 people directly, including at its Enterprise Centre and Head Office in Greenhills, Ballina, and through various projects and programmes such as Mayo Volunteer Centre, Mayo North Tourism, Craoibhín Ballina and LEADER.

It also runs the largest Community Employment Scheme in North Mayo, which supports 11 community groups from Foxford to Ballycastle and Enniscrone to Lacken, as well as in Ballina.

Over 100 further jobs across 30 different companies are supported indirectly by Moy Valley Resources at its Enterprise Centre in Greenhills, Ballina, and at its commercial and industrial units at The Quay, Cathedral Road and at various locations in Bunree.

“When these beautifully restored military quarters were first occupied almost 300 years ago, Ballina, and indeed Ireland, was a very different place, “ said David Dwane, the Chairperson of North Mayo-West Sligo CLG, which trades as Moy Valley Resources IRD.

“Now it’s an occupation of a different kind for these historic buildings as we look forward to welcoming the brightest, best and most innovative businesses to Ballina, writing a positive new narrative for the town and region.

“We know from the 2022 census and a subsequent Pobal report that deprivation still exists in this region. Through our experience and accumulated knowledge over three decades, and through our extensive skills levels and network of supports and services, Moy Valley Resources will continue to provide the means to help address the economic and social demands of the people of North Mayo and West Sligo.

“We are delighted to partner with Mayo County Council in this major development, a project that aligns very closely with the work of Moy Valley Resources over the past three decades in promoting enterprise development across North Mayo and West Sligo,” said Mr. Dwane.

Annette Maughan, CEO of Moy Valley Resources, welcomed this new chapter, saying: “IQ Ballina represents a continuation of our organisation’s work in supporting enterprise growth and empowering local businesses. We look forward to welcoming new enterprises that can contribute to our region’s prosperity.” Current tenants at IQ Ballina include MFA Consulting Engineers, ACT Ireland, GDI Ventures, Clarke Conlon and Ox Timber Frames.

For businesses and entrepreneurs eager to join the IQ Ballina community, further details on the Expression of Interest process can be requested via eoienquiries@iqballina.ie.

You can also visit the IQ Ballina website at www.iqballina.ie