Ian sets up his own Mushroom Growing business 'BallyFungi', with the support of his SkillSET employment officer, Leanne 

Ian has been supported by our Cedar SkillSET programme since last year and he has since set up his own business with the support of his SkillSET Employment Officer, Leanne. 

Named, ‘Ballyfungi’, Ian set up his mushroom farming business, based on the Springfield Road in Belfast; selling functional mushrooms, as well as growing kits and other related items.

While on the programme, Ian was able to discuss his business plan with Leanne and agree an action plan where he can see meaningful steps being taken towards being fully self-employed within his own successful business. Ian’s said, that his own personal history of mental health is driving his desire to use both the product itself and everything that it stands for, to additional encourage those around him.

Ian has over 25 years experience as a chef and is using these skills, as well as a passion for mushrooms, to share his knowledge with other people. He hopes to be able to further grow the business to include workshops, where attendees can learn the necessary steps and methods to growing their own mushrooms at home. 

Ian also set up his own social media accounts, including the 'Ballyfungi Facebook Page' https://www.facebook.com/Ballyfungi; which you can visit for more information on any upcoming events and offers - or just pop into Ballyfungi and meet Ian!

Find out more about SkillSET and how to get involved: SkillSET | The Cedar Foundation (cedar-foundation.org)