For the eighth year running, leading law firm Wilson Nesbitt is proud to sponsor the Best Large Company category for the Belfast Telegraph Business Awards 2025.
Looking forward to the rest of the year, the business landscape remains a steady mix of optimism and challenges, with Northern Ireland enjoying record-high employment and forecast economic growth of up to 1.5% next year.
There are, understandably, a lot of concerns among the business community following the Budget, which will see increased business and supply chain costs coming into effect in April.
With businesses having been targeted by the Chancellor, it will be interesting to see how this plays out in terms of inward investment and the employment market.
Wilson Nesbitt
Northern Ireland has, however, had its first year of relative political stability for a long period, which is what businesses and investors want to see. There are micro and macro issues affecting a variety of sectors and we need strong leadership to address these.
Max Nesbitt, partner leading Wilson Nesbitt’s corporate and banking and finance teams, says: “There are certainly headwinds in front of us, but as a business we are continuing to see growth across the sectors and business we work with. It’s brilliant to see Northern Ireland businesses consistently leading in their fields.
“Notably, nine Northern Irish companies were featured in last year’s Deloitte Fast 50 list, matching the number from 2023.
“Northern Ireland also ranks as the number one international investment location for US cyber security firms, while as a global regtech hub, the country offers significant opportunities for technology companies servicing financial institutions.”
Max said he had been thrilled to see Belfast emerge as the world’s top city for fintech inward investment.
“The city, which proudly secured a top 10 place in the 2024 Global Sustainability Index, continues to make waves in tech and entrepreneurship and is recognised as the UK’s second fastest-growing knowledge economy, while maintaining its 11th place position as the best start-up ecosystem nationally.
“The future remains exciting, and it instils confidence to see so many business groups and leaders coming together to support and enhance Northern Ireland plc.”
Business Awards 2025 logo
Wilson Nesbitt supports businesses on all corporate matters, including acquisitions and mergers, private equity, restructuring, and corporate governance.
Its corporate team is supported by specialists in real estate, banking and finance, and employment.
The firm helps to guide clients through the life cycle of their business and professional needs by delivering a holistic and innovative approach.
Max adds: “It is a joy to celebrate the city’s great entrepreneurial spirit, and it is our privilege to sponsor the Belfast Telegraph Business Awards.
“Good luck to all of those entering. Together, we can highlight the leadership, strength, and resilience that make Belfast one of the most dynamic and respected business hubs in the world.”
To enter, go to www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/businessawards/enter