Enterprise zone's £250,000 cash boost

Sheffield City Region Local Enterprise Partnership, which will oversee the creation of an enterprise zone and businesses’ bids for Government funding, is to receive almost £250,000 from a new support fund.

The LEP was successful in its bid for money from the Start Up Fund, which is designed to help the newly-formed partnerships get off the ground.

The award of £246,000—the highest award from the fund nationally—will pay for essential staff to develop and deliver the work of the LEP, and help build a programme of engagement with the local business community.

James Newman, chairman of the Sheffield City Region LEP, said: “Along with fellow board members, I have been calling on Government for some time to make real their commitment to the LEPs and their potential, by providing practical support on the ground.

“We’re delighted that the Government has responded to this, and that the LEP has been successful in its bid for much-needed funding.

“Although we have not been awarded everything that we applied for, this money will help the Local Enterprise Partnership set up a team of up to six essential staff, and provide a budget for activities that will help us to engage local businesses in the work of the Sheffield City Region.

"Since its launch in October last year, the LEP has made great strides and this funding will help build an initial team to further drive progress on our priorities to strengthen our economy.”