£120m investment programme to boost South Tyneside SMEs

SMEs in South Tyneside can access funds from a £120m investment programme designed to support the region’s businesses.

Invest South Tyneside, South Tyneside Council’s business investment team, is signposting SMEs within the borough to funding sources and practical support to facilitate business growth.

The programme is set to deliver a range of workshops on subjects like IT skills and finance, as well as offering networking opportunities, working with local organisations such as Digital Sparkles, NEL Fund Managers and Lara Mellor Training and Consultancy.

Cllr John Anglin, lead member for regeneration and economy, explained: “The North East Fund is a £120m investment programme with five funds available for qualifying SMEs within the borough, while the North East Business Support Fund can fund business improvement projects in small businesses.

“South Tyneside Council also works with businesses starting, relocating to, or already within the Borough and supports them to achieve growth, create local jobs, make vital business links through networking, and develop the skills of their existing workforce through training.”

Jayne Hart, founder of local business HRDept, expanded her business with the support of the North East Fund. Jayne added: “For small business owners, having access to high quality training and networking opportunities like this on your doorstep is invaluable.

“They provide the opportunity to build personal skill sets and those of the business’ employees with new knowledge and techniques while at the same time developing your professional network.”