Rural businesses across the Chilterns can now apply for grants of up to £50,000 to help create growth and jobs.
The grants are administered by Ngage Solutions, on behalf of the Chilterns LEADER Local Action Group.
The Chilterns LEADER programme is designed to promote business growth, particularly the growth of micro and small businesses. It is focused on rural areas supporting; small rural companies, farm diversification projects, forestry projects, tourism projects, rural services and cultural and heritage projects. The programme is expected to help with the creation of approximately 75 jobs and to provide financial support for 130 rural businesses.
Mike Furness, LEADER Programme Manager, said:
‘The Chilterns has a significant rural economy and the Chilterns LEADER Programme will support activity that helps businesses grow, drawing on the unique characteristics of the area, while promoting the sustainable management of natural resources like woodlands. We are looking forward to working together with local businesses to support their growth and we want to encourage them get in touch to find out how we can help them.’
David Briggs, Chair of the Chilterns LEADER LAG, said:
“We are delighted to have been awarded this new round of funding, especially as we know there is a real need within our local community. Due to the success of the last wave of LEADER funding we have already had expressions of interest from local businesses including farms looking to expand processing capabilities, diversify into farm shops and tea rooms, cycle hubs, tourism projects and forestry activity.’
In the 2008-2013 LEADER programme, projects delivered by Ngage were some of the most successful in the UK. 124 projects were awarded funding which in turn sustained 206 jobs, created 117 new jobs and helped launch 39 new businesses.
For more information about whether your business may be eligible for a LEADER grant and for more information on the North & West Northamptonshire, Chilterns and Clay Vale LEADER programmes, visit www.leader-programme.org.uk or call the team on 01494 568969.