The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
SMEs to receive £800k in EU funding
Dundee and Fife are each to receive around £800,000 in the latest round of European Regional Development Fund grants for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Throughout Scotland more than 20,000 businesses will benefit from a £60 million investment package, with EU money being used to grow the industry sector north of the border.
The money will allow companies to access the help they need to expand.
SMEs account for 95% of businesses in Scotland, and the funding will target growth through innovation and investment.
Scottish Economy Minister Keith Brown said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to support our SMEs – the engine of the Scottish economy.
“The investment will benefit more than 20,000 enterprises, with the aim of identifying and developing our next 1,000 growth businesses. Business Gateway support alone is forecast to create 11,000 jobs.”
He added: “This investment shows exactly why the best way to guarantee jobs, investment, services and projects across the country, is by maintaining Scotland’s relationship with the EU.
“Membership delivers many social, economic and cultural benefits for individuals, businesses and communities so maintaining our EU membership is a top priority.”
He praised the Scottish Local Authority Economic Development Network, Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and numerous local authorities for working together to help deliver the funding boost.