Ambition to drive economy

Businesses are lending their support to a new programme designed to drive economic growth and help start-up companies succeed.

South Ayrshire Council officially re-launched its AMBITION programme at a workshop at the University of the West of Scotland last week.

Since 2013, more than 500 local businesses have received support via the programme.

The new AMBITION project has a specific focus on supporting growth for existing businesses and help for individuals to start-up new companies.

Councillor Brian McGinley, South Ayrshire spokesman for economic development, said:“We’re committed to supporting local companies to maximise their performance, creating business growth, and securing new jobs for South Ayrshire.

“We’re actively working to make the most of the local economy and in the next three years we’ll be encouraging businesses to plan for growth in measured and sustainable ways.”

New and existing businesses have been given access to a range of specialists in sales and marketing, finance, digital, procurement, people, innovation, and management development.

Discretionary grant funding – worth between £500 and £5000 – will also support businesses during periods of transition and is for businesses looking to hire at least one additional full-time employee within the next 24 months.

Ambition to Start is aimed to help get businesses up and running, with grants available of up to £1000 to cover start-up costs including capital expenditure and working capital.