Mapping a new business future

Local man maps his way to success

Northern Ireland's economy may face uncertainty, but that hasn't quenched the thirst of a new army of ambitious, local entrepreneurs keen to start up an exciting new business from scratch.

With the support of Invest Northern Ireland's Go for it programme, Allan Hamilton has joined them and he hasn't looked back...

A keen lover of the great outdoors, Allan is the power behind Treasure Trails NI, a new company which provides mystery walking and driving trails across the south of Northern Ireland.

"A Treasure Trail can best be described as a cross between a quiz and a guided walk, and the 'mystery tour' version has been compared to a giant game of Cluedo.

"Our aim is to get people out and about and exploring our beautiful towns and cities while learning and having fun." explains Allan.

TV presenter and former England international footballer Gary Lineker and wife Danielle were early signings for Treasure Trails NI, embracing the 'mystery tour' concept as part of the BBC TV programme 'Northern Exposure'.

Recognised by Craigavon Borough Council for his efforts to promote tourism with his new service, Allan recently won an award for Most Innovative Business.

"We have had tremendous success in the last year," said Allan. "We're successful because we can provide engaging, healthy family entertainment for less than the price of a cinema ticket. On top of that, we can also create bespoke trails for any event – from team-building days to fund-raisers."

So what drove Allan to start his own business?

"There isn't one single reason, but after I left my job in July 2007, I felt that working for myself would give me a lot more freedom and new challenges in my life. I love walking outdoors too and with this in mind I started to investigate my options and came across Treasure Trails, a company that was started in Cornwall and which had a business model I knew I could make work here."

However, Allan still needed the skills and confidence to take his business idea to the next stage and promptly signed up for the Go for it programme to help him.

"Signing up to Go for it was an excellent first step," Allan said. "It gave me a greater understanding of all aspects of business, including marketing and accountancy. I would recommend anyone thinking about going into business to get in there and do it."

"Most importantly," he adds. "I learned that starting a business doesn't have to be difficult and that the more you put in, the more you get out. Go for it also provides vital, practical advice for developing a business plan – a must before you can think about getting started."

Allan is now planning a move to the Innovation Centre in Craigavon to help fuel further growth.

"We're also looking to incorporate a new I-phone app or 'Techno Trail' by next spring which should attract all of those mobile users who are as keen as I am to get outdoors and explore the wonderful surroundings we have."

The Go for it Programme is provided by Invest Northern Ireland and is part financed by the European Regional Development Fund. For details, log on to www.goforitni.com.