More than 260 small businesses in Staffordshire were supported through a 10-month pilot scheme aimed at boosting workplace skills, innovation and green credentials.
Nearly £1.5million was secured by Staffordshire County Council from the Government’s UK Community Renewal Fund.
This supported new approaches and investment in skills, small businesses, people gaining new employment and using innovation in renewable energy to cut carbon emissions locally.
Staffordshire’s funding, which was part of a £220million national total, enabled three projects to support 261 businesses and 224 people into education.
They included the Staffordshire Means Back to Business programme – a package of schemes including backing for start-ups, financial support so businesses can thrive, carbon literacy, apprenticeship support and training. The programme was allocated £737,000 from UKCRF.
An Innovation and Productivity Pathfinder project run by Staffordshire University supported small businesses develop product and service strategies to find innovative markets. Businesses benefited from expert advice from the university. The project was boosted by a £528,000 UKCRF allocation.
Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council implemented a carbon reduction and sustainable energy programme using its £215,000 UKCRF allocation. Working with Keele University, programme leaders investigated solar power options for future housing development. In addition, the council has drawn up decarbonisation plans for 11 of its community buildings.
Marek Hornak, executive director of business engagement at Staffordshire University, said: “We are extremely proud that the Innovation and Productivity Pathfinder has made an impact across so many sectors in our region. The support received will lead to business growth, improved products and services, more efficient processes, and will create more jobs for the local area.
Trevor Johnson, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council’s cabinet member for environment and recycling, said: “This has been an invaluable opportunity to work with experts to consider the best ways of using natural energy in the long term.
“At the same the pilot has allowed us to begin planning practical changes at some of our buildings as we move towards our commitment of being a carbon net zero authority.”
