The number of jobs created by LEDU-backed companies fell by 13% last year, according to a report.

The small business agency's end of year statement said that the number of jobs created by start-up firms had increased.

But it said new positions created by existing LEDU companies were down by almost 40%.

It pointed out that LEDU helped 1,329 new companies start up last year - an increase of 10%.

LEDU has been helping small businesses in Northern Ireland for almost 30 years, but this is its last annual report.

It will become part of the new economic development agency from the beginning of next year.

Majority

The report said trading conditions were difficult over the last 12 months but it was encouraged by the performance of its client companies.

In total, 2,700 new jobs were created last year but that figure was down from 3,100 over the previous 12 months.

The vast majority of these new jobs were as a result of an increased number of new start-up businesses.

LEDU said that job creation among its established firms was down, but growth in its sales - particularly in export markets - had increased significantly.

From the start of next year, LEDU is to be absorbed into a super-agency with the job promotion agency, the Industrial Development Board.

Last month, the IDB reported a record year for inward investment.

The figures came despite continuing job losses in the textile industry, where at least 3,000 jobs have been lost over the last 12 months.

The IDB said that its remaining months in existence would be "challenging" given the fact that some technology companies were facing a significant downturn in business.