Operating Partner for Creative Innovation Hub in Holywood - Market Engagement Exercise

Ards and North Down Borough Council is seeking an Operating Partner for a Creative Innovation Hub in Holywood, Co. Down through a preliminary market engagement exercise. This £10.02 million project is funded by the Belfast Region City Deal (£8.92 million) and the Council (£1.1 million), with additional private sector funding required. The hub will provide modern facilities and workspace for micro and small businesses in the digital, creative, and screen industries, supporting start-ups, growth-stage firms, and established anchor tenants. It aims to address the sector's main challenge—lack of suitable accommodation—and create an ecosystem that improves skills and employment across the region. The appointed operator will manage the hub from an early stage, working alongside an Integrated Consultancy Team to ensure operational and commercial needs are built into the design. This preliminary engagement is conducted under the Procurement Act 2023 to identify capable suppliers, refine requirements, develop award criteria, and shape the formal procurement approach. Interested organizations are invited to complete the Expression of Interest questionnaire available on eTendersNI (Resource ID 6717503).