Worcestershire businesses to benefit from £2.9m support package

FIRMS based within the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership area are being given a helping hand to embark on a fresh business venture or grow an existing business.

The support is being made available through Enterprising Worcester and is provided through £1.4m from the European Regional Development Fund, which is managed by the Department for Communities and Local Government, and match funding from Worcestershire County Council and the area’s district councils.

For people looking to set up a business for the first time, the programme can offer support, coaching and finance, and all the fundamental tools necessary to get it up and running. 

And bespoke specialist advice, guidance and financial support is available to existing businesses with the potential to grow and develop.

Communities Minister Baroness Hanham CBE said:  “Helping individuals turn simple ideas into a profitable business venture or providing opportunities for existing businesses to develop is a priority for the country’s economic revival.”

Councillor Simon Geraghty, Worcestershire County Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for economy and infrastructure, said: “Enterprising Worcestershire offers excellent opportunities for businesses, whether starting up or looking to grow and develop. 

“A particular benefit of this scheme is local targeted support across the whole county – for example, access to facilities at the Hive – Europe’s first joint University and public library –  will be of particular benefit for those establishing and growing their businesses, and business advisors will have specialist knowledge so that services to businesses can be tailored to specific needs.”

Peter Pawsey, executive chair of the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “This package of financial support and business advice will encourage those thinking of either starting or investing in their business in Worcestershire to take the plunge.”