Christchurch and East Dorset Councils are encouraging local businesses to apply for grants for transformational projects from the South West Growth Fund.
Supported by the Regional Growth Fund, the £8.7million South West Growth Fund supports transformational projects in businesses, primarily in manufacturing, marine and digital industries and is set to create a total of 1,000 new jobs. Twenty three businesses in the South West have so far benefitted from grants totalling £2.3million from the Fund.
The successful firms range from food and drink manufacturers to aerospace companies. The grants will support major expansions and allow them to invest in the latest equipment to fast-track their growth and help them to compete nationally and internationally.
One Christchurch firm to benefit is boat builder Cobra Ribs who are preparing to launch a new range of family leisure boats that will help them to compete on the international stage. By securing a £20,000 grant through the South West Growth Fund, this has enabled the business to fund the design and launch of a new series of Rigid Inflatable Boats (ribs) aimed at the family market. Through the investment, the company is also aiming to grow its core team from eight to 12 over the next two years.
With clear benefits to businesses, Christchurch and East Dorset Councils are encouraging businesses in the local area to give their expressions of interest by 12 September to have a chance of securing a grant. Register via:
www.gaininbusiness.com/swgf or www.swmas.co.uk/business-support/south-west-growth-fund-0