A new £15 million green business programme has been launched to help create 275 jobs and save a further 250 in Birmingham.
The Green Bridge Supply Chain Programme will run over the next two years to support businesses in the environmental green sector, and those wishing to diversify into that sector.
It will offer funding for investment in new equipment, relocation or expansion into new premises and improvements in systems or processes.
With a total value of £15 million, the programme fund has been established with a grant of £7.5 million from the European Regional Development Fund, which is managed by the Department for Communities and Local Government, and £806,510 from Birmingham City Council, Local Enterprise Partnership partners, Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and Midlands Environmental Business Council. In addition just under £6.7 million will be provided by businesses taking part in the programme.
Communities Minister Baroness Stowell of Beeston MBE said: “Supporting initiatives that benefit local businesses and in turn create or save jobs is a government priority and I am delighted that we have been able to fund such a worthwhile programme.”
Birmingham City Council, Cabinet member for Development, Jobs and Skills, Councillor Tahir Ali, said:
“Following the success of Regional Growth Fund programme, which is forecast to create 1,301 new jobs and safeguard a further 700, I am pleased to announce that the Green Bridge Supply Chain Programme has been offered a further £7.5 million from the European Regional Development Fund to support small and medium enterprises across the West Midlands in their transition to the ‘Green Economy’.
“This will make a huge difference to the local and regional economy, creating new jobs and supporting vital green business initiatives such as renewable energy sources and energy efficiency measures.”
To find out more about the programme email mohammed.zahir@birmingham.gov.uk or call 0121 303 2956.
