Inspired by Wales: Building 10,000 Employee Owners in Northern Ireland

Wales has just hit an incredible milestone — around 100 employee-owned businesses. It’s a moment worth celebrating, and for those of us working in employee ownership here in Northern Ireland, it’s deeply inspiring.

It shows what’s possible when awareness, advice and policy all move in the same direction. Wales has turned what once felt like a niche idea into a normal business conversation — and that’s exactly what we want to see here too.

Why we look at employee owners, not just EOTs

Wales counts the number of employee-owned businesses. We count the number of employee owners. Because each transition doesn’t just create a new business structure — it creates new owners, new voices, and new opportunities.

Our goal is bold but simple: 10,000 employee owners in Northern Ireland by 2030. Every single one of them will help build a stronger, fairer local economy.

Where we are right now

In 2021, Northern Ireland had just one EOT. By 2025, that number has grown to 20 — all indigenous firms that chose to pass ownership to their employees.

Together, that’s a community of over 1,300 employee owners in Northern Ireland — and growing. Every month, more local business owners are starting to ask if this model could work for them too.

What we can learn from Wales

Wales didn’t reach 100 overnight. Their success was built step by step — with dedicated support, clear communication, and strong political backing. Organisations like Cwmpas have made employee ownership a mainstream part of Welsh business life.

• Dedicated support for business owners exploring the model.
• Policy commitment from the Welsh Government to embed EO in its economic strategy.
• Powerful storytelling about the impact on jobs, communities, and local pride.

These are lessons we can adapt here — building on the momentum that’s already underway across Northern Ireland.

What’s next for Northern Ireland?

If Wales can reach 100 employee-owned businesses, what could Northern Ireland achieve in the next five years? How do we turn our 1,300 employee owners into 10,000?

That’s the challenge ahead — and one we’re ready for. Through our roadshows, feasibility support, and growing community of advisors, we’re laying the groundwork for the next phase of growth.