Ballinasloe Enterprise Centre fought off tough competition at the recent Galway County Mayors Awards to pick up the Community Enterprise Award.

The centre provides workspace and support services to help start up enterprises. It is located in the old psychiatric hospital, 'St Enda's' which was purchased in 1999 and is currently home to fifteen enterprises, employing more than 180 people.

The centre also regularly hosts events such as seminars and networking mornings.

The centre has have recently developed a 'business listing' where businesses can email the centre about an upcoming event or special offer and this is then forwarded on to the 500 businesses registered with the centre.

Earlier this year the centre hosted 'Equal Ireland Skillnet' which was attended by Minister for Training and Skills Ciaran Cannon T.D.. This event focused on finding out the training and education needs of enterprises.

Social Media Training was identified as a priority and this training has since been delivered. The centre also publishes Ballinasloe Life. This bi-monthly, 48 page magazine promoting Ballinasloe and its environs is distributed free to households. Speaking after receiving the award, the Manager of the Ballinasloe Enterprise Centre, Helen Kelly, said they were "delighted the centre was being recognised for its enterprise activities".

"Helping and developing enterprises is so important in these challenging times, especially when many people have lost their jobs and are looking to diversify into other areas".