GROWING businesses in Swindon are being offered a share of a £1m grant aimed at boosting the economy.

The funds come from a national programme initiated by the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills which will see a total of £32m ploughed into the country’s economy.

The Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership, a collaboration of the region’s chambers of commerce associations, will be processing applications from the area’s businesses when the grant scheme launches in January.

Companies wishing to apply for a share of the regional growth fund need to have a yearly turnover of £500,000 or more.

Rob Perks, chief executive of Wessex Chambers, said: “This money is for projects which will help a business develop.

“It could be that the funds might go towards hiring new staff or developing a new product, something which will provide a boost to help take a business forward.

“We haven’t yet signed off what the grant limit is but that will be announced in the new year.

“I think this is a really great opportunity for the region.”

The SWLEP, which consists of Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce, Swindon Chambers of Commerce and Business West, will be working with national organisations to develop a specific website for the scheme.

Those awarded a grant will also have the chance to work with business experts to help them oversee their plans.

The programme will last a year, and discussions are ongoing to continue it in the future.

Wiltshire Council leader Jane Scott has welcomed the investment in the region’s economy.

She said: “This is a real investment in growth that creates and safeguards jobs in Wiltshire and is testament to the excellent partnership working between Wiltshire Council and the Wessex Chambers of Commerce, building on the successful Wiltshire Business Support Service, funded by the council and delivered by Wessex Chambers.

“We are delighted for the chambers and pleased to be able to support this initiative.”

For full details of the grant visit www.wessexchambers. org.uk or call 01225 355553.