SME support creates 330 new jobs

MORE than 330 new jobs have been created at small and medium-sized manufacturers across Greater Birmingham and Solihull on the back of a business support programme.

And the Manufacturing Growth Programme has now delivered its latest grant to boost the fortunes of Birmingham-based precision stamping firm Brandauer, taking its total contribution to SMEs to more than £530,000 the region.

This assistance has been directed towards improving marketing activities, penetrating new sectors and developing business strategy at the company.

The Manufacturing Growth Programme was set up to fill the void left by the Manufacturing Advice Service after it was closed down by the Government in 2015 by providing access to specialist assistance to help manufacturers grow and improve.

It offers a network of experienced manufacturing growth managers, access to industry specialists and grant from £1,000.

Martin Coats, managing director of Economic Growth Solutions which delivers the programme, said: “We are continually proving that the right support, delivered at the right time and by the right people, can make a significant difference to manufacturers.

“Over £530,000 has been awarded in the form of grants so far and this has been used by firms across Greater Birmingham and Solihull to improve the way they manufacture, launch new products or access additional and new markets.

“This has already equated to in excess of 335 new jobs, with a further 100 expected to be created once projects are completed.”