Funding to support local business

Derby City Council is inviting organisations who help businesses to grow to bid for funding to deliver tailor-made programmes of support.

Applications are now open for the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which aims to support programmes that can help businesses grow and innovate.

The fund was launched in April last year to replace EU funding. It is a key part of the Government’s “levelling-up” agenda and is aimed at boosting communities, supporting local businesses and improving skills.

Following government approval of its Investment Plan, the city council was awarded a total of £6.1 million.

Councillor Steve Hassall, cabinet member for regeneration, decarbonisation, strategic planning and transport, said: “We want to support businesses to grow and to recruit, to enable residents to upskill and take advantage of the city’s increased employment opportunities.

“This funding will create programmes that will create jobs, drive economic growth and help to make Derby a great place to live and work.”

Interested providers should e-mail spf@derby.gov.uk for an application pack. Organisations must submit completed applications by 7 March.