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About the Non-Executive Director Scheme
The Non-Executive Director (NED) Scheme helps Invest Northern Ireland's SME customers enhance their leadership by appointing an experienced, independent NED to their company board. This expert will provide valuable, objective advice, guidance, and support to improve strategic decision-making, board operations, and leadership effectiveness.
NED projects typically focus on:
- Enhancing strategic focus and decision-making
- Developing and executing business vision and strategy
- Strengthening corporate governance and risk management
- Optimising board operations and executive accountability
- Driving business growth, scaling, and change management
- Expanding into new markets and increasing export sales
How can my business benefit from the Non-Executive Director Scheme?
Your business can gain the following benefits from the Non-Executive Director Scheme:
- Advisory support to identify and engage an independent/external Non-Executive Director
- Financial support up to £10,000 or 49% of eligible costs, whichever is the lesser
- A two-year engagement, typically 12-24 days per annum
Who is eligible for the Non-Executive Director Scheme?
The Non-Executive Director programme is only available to Invest Northern Ireland clients. If you would like more information on becoming a client, see How we support business.
To be eligible for the Non-Executive Director Scheme, you must also meet the following criteria:
- Be a limited or unlimited company registered in Northern Ireland
- Have turnover of at least £500k, with 25% export sales (or commit to achieve this over the duration of the project)
- Have an existing, or wish to form, a company board
What is required from my business?
To participate in the Non-Executive Director Scheme, your business will need to complete the following steps:
- Selecting and appointing the Non-Executive Director
- Scoping of the project in conjunction with the Non-Executive Director
- Submitting the NED Scheme application for support to Invest NI
- Negotiating and agreeing the terms and conditions of the NED’s appointment and confirming this in a formal letter of engagement
- Registering the NED as a director of the company with Companies House
How to apply
If you are interested in finding out more or applying for the Non-Executive Director programme, please contact your Invest NI client executive or complete this enquiry form.
Case study
Edwina Flynn, CEO of Wood Innovations, shares how Invest Northern Ireland’s Non-Executive Director Scheme has empowered the company to sharpen its focus on strategic objectives, driving sustainable and profitable growth.