New Hub for Innovation and Enterprise in Derry unveiled

Brian O'Neill, Director of Development and Enterprise North West at the opening of ‘The PrintWorks’ , at the former Derry News office, Ballinaska Road, with from left, are Charles Kennedy, Chief Operating Officer, Phelim Sharvin, Head of Community Finance Ireland, Ava Sweeney, Property Executive, Carolann Doherty, Business Officer, Derry City & Strabane District Council, and Greg McCann, chairperson, Development & Enterprise North-West. (PHOTO: Tom Heaney, nwpresspics.)

Enterprise North West has announced the development of The PrintWorks, a cutting-edge enterprise and innovation centre set to transform the former Derry News offices in Springtown into a vibrant hub for entrepreneurship and business growth.

The ambitious refurbishment project, delivered in partnership with Derry City & Strabane District Council and Community Finance Ireland will create 40 new jobs initially but go on to support up to 50 business start-ups, and 100+ jobs over the next five years. It will also feed into Enterprise North West’s annual social impact and social reinvestment back into Community Wealth Building and local projects.

In addition, Enterprise North West will support 200 individuals to transition from unemployment to employment through targeted business support and training programmes.

The financial impact of these initiatives is projected to exceed £9 million, with £1 million expected to recirculate into the wider DCSDC economy.

Mayor Ruairí McHugh of Derry City and Strabane District Council commented: "We’re delighted to support this innovative project with Enterprise North West. The PrintWorks will breathe new life into a building with lots of history between its walls, creating economic and employment opportunities while providing a vital hub for local businesses."

"This partnership reflects our commitment to strengthening the region’s business infrastructure and ensuring entrepreneurs have the facilities they need to succeed. With the continued growth of the DCSDC area, The PrintWorks will play a key part in our ecosystem."

Celebrating its 38th anniversary in 2025, Enterprise North West continues to be recognised as a centre of excellence for businesses and social enterprises across the North West.

The PrintWorks will feature state-of-the-art private office suites and modern meeting suites with conferencing capabilities - all designed to meet the needs of a growing and diverse business community.

Phelim Sharvin, Head of Community Finance Ireland NI said: “Community Finance Ireland has had a long and positive relationship with Enterprise North West and we are delighted to help them acquire this property. This project allows Community Finance Ireland to be the finance partner for an organisation delivering community wealth building and social impact. We stand ready to support this sector by providing flexible loans through a responsible, community-centric approach to all voluntary led organisations.”

Enterprise North West currently offers 100,000 square feet of lettable workspace across three key locations: North West Business Complex in Skeoge, 104 Ebrington Square, and The PrintWorks in Springtown. These facilities are complemented by a range of business support and training programmes.

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Gregory McCann, Chairperson of Enterprise North West, added: “This project marks an exciting new chapter for Enterprise North West and the wider community.

“The PrintWorks is the latest addition to our rebranded MaidenSpaces property portfolio. The upgraded facilities will be ideal for businesses in IT, finance, professional services, and the creative and digital industries.”

“The PrintWorks will provide modern workspaces, business support and event spaces, enabling us to host more start-ups, scale-ups and training programmes. This demonstrates our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth in the region."

Enterprise North West believes that thriving businesses don’t need to be confined to city centres. The PrintWorks will strengthen the local network of modern workspaces, stimulate job creation, and attract new opportunities including cross-border trade to the area.

The PrintWorks expansion is scheduled for completion in December 2026.

For more information, visit: www.enterprisenw.com and www.maidenspaces.com