New round of export grants launched

A Tees Valley-based business programme is helping more companies sell internationally.

The Tees Valley Export Fund has launched a second round, offering an additional £500,000 to support local businesses in expanding their reach overseas. 

The scheme provides grants of £3000 to £10,000 to help businesses attend trade fairs, commission market research, adapt websites for new markets, or secure the licences needed to trade abroad.

Early success from the first round, which helped dozens of SMEs, prompted the Tees Valley mayor and Combined Authority to extend support to all businesses, not just SMEs.

By co-funding projects, the programme aims to increase both the number of exporters in the region and the range and value of goods and services sold overseas.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said: “We’ve got world-class firms right across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool and we’re making sure they’ve got the backing to take their expertise global. 

“We’ve made our stamp around the world throughout history and it’s right that we back our brilliant local businesses to do it once again.

“Our local engineering expertise is second to none and we’re fast establishing ourselves as a leader in digital and tech. Teesside’s local talent shines, which is why we’re going even further to showcase our region to the rest of the world. 

“The first round of this export scheme has been very popular, and this support will help our brilliant businesses take their next step and show the world once again what we can do.”

Middlesbrough mayor Chris Cooke, who is the Tees Valley Combined Authority cabinet member for inward investment and finance, added: “This is another example of how we’re using funding to provide for what our businesses want and take our region forward.

“Exporting is one of the most effective ways for companies to grow sustainably, create skilled jobs and strengthen our economy. 

“We want as many Tees Valley businesses as possible to benefit from this and thrive.

“Whether you’re exploring exporting for the first time, or looking to build on existing success, this support is designed to make it easier to take that next step and compete on a global stage.”

The Export Support programme is funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered in partnership with the Department for Business and Trade.

Applications for the latest round are open until November 25, with successful applicants to be notified in late December.

Full details, including eligibility and how to apply, see here.

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