£1.1 million growth fund boost for rural companies

Rural businesses across England’s northernmost county are being urged to tap into a £1.1 million growth pot.  

The Northumberland Small Business Service is rolling out the Grant Investment Fund to support micro and small enterprises.

The Government-backed venture offers support from £10,000 to £300,000 to fund projects focused on “long-term growth, improved productivity and market diversification”.

It follows a previous £1.5 million tranche, which bosses say supported nearly 20 businesses and created and supported more than 100 jobs across sectors including manufacturing, food production and tourism.

Firms boosted by the initial fund included Morpeth-based Northumberland Logs, which bought new machinery to aid expansion plans.

Owner James Cookson said: “We couldn’t have done this without the capital grant funding; it’s been absolutely crucial to the progression of the business.”

Lucy Evermore, programme manager, added: “The Investment Grant has already made a real difference to rural businesses by unlocking growth, securing jobs and stimulating investment.

“And with £1.1 million still available, we’re encouraging more businesses to step forward and take advantage of this opportunity to scale-up, diversify and contribute to the continued success of Northumberland’s rural economy.”

The programme runs until March 31 next year, with all funded projects to be completed by December 2025.

For more information, contact business@businessnorthumberland.co.uk

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