Final call for Tees Valley export fund

Tees Valley businesses are being urged to take advantage of funding designed to support international growth and take businesses “to the next level|” before applications close later this month.

The Tees Valley Export Fund is offering grants of between £3000 and £10,000 to companies looking to begin exporting or expand their presence in overseas markets, with a 25 per cent match-funding requirement.

Applications for the latest round close on August 31, with supported activity and associated expenditure required to be completed by mid-September.

Since launching, the fund has awarded more than £800,000 to 127 Tees Valley businesses, helping companies reach customers and opportunities across 43 countries.

Support can cover overseas trade fairs and missions, market research, website adaptations, marketing materials and legal requirements associated with international trading.

Around 35 per cent of funding awarded so far has supported travel, accommodation and exhibition costs, while almost half has been used for website adaptations, internationalisation and legal support.

Among the businesses to benefit is Middlesbrough-based Nouveau Legal, with legal director Adeel Bashir using funding to attend a conference in Dubai and develop relationships with potential clients.

Adeel said: “It helps open another avenue to potential work and broadens your horizons. 

“Going to another country and understanding how they operate in person makes a really big difference.

“I would recommend it to all businesses as well as those looking to expand.”

Middlesbrough gaming firm Observer Interactive also cemented key ties with the help of the fund through its support with trips to the United States.

Matty McGrory, design director and chief operating officer at Observer Interactive, added: “The Export Fund has been unreal for us – it’s been an absolute game changer.”

The USA, UAE and European markets have proved the most popular destinations, with digital, creative and advanced manufacturing businesses among the most successful applicants.

Upcoming international opportunities include Gamescom in Cologne, the LEAP technology conference in Riyadh and Offshore Northern Seas in Stavanger.

Backed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the programme aims to increase both the number of Tees Valley companies exporting and the value of international trade generated by businesses already operating overseas.

Officials have warned that funding is limited and the programme could close early if applications reach the available budget.

Middlesbrough mayor Chris Cooke, Tees Valley Combined Authority cabinet member for finance, organisational improvement and business growth, added: “We’ve seen first-hand how access to targeted support can give businesses the confidence and resources they need to explore new opportunities overseas.

“From attending major trade events to adapting products and marketing for international customers, this fund has helped companies across a wide range of sectors strengthen their growth plans.

“The deadline is fast approaching, but there is still time to apply. 

“I’d urge any eligible business considering export opportunities to take a look at what's available and submit a bid while funding remains open.”

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “We've got some absolutely brilliant businesses across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool, and this fund has already helped more than 120 take their products and services to markets across the globe.

“Whether it's opening doors in the Middle East, the USA or Europe, exporting helps firms grow, create jobs and bring more money back into our local economy.

"There’s still time for businesses to make the most of this opportunity before the programme ends. 

“If you've got ambitions to reach new customers overseas, I'd strongly encourage you to get your application in now and see how this support can help take your business to the next level.”

To apply, go to: Tees Valley Export Fund - Business

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