Micro businesses that operate from home or other modest locations could raise their profile without having to stump up large sums on accommodation, thanks to a new scheme.
A £57,000 'instant office' has been launched at a new innovation centre on the Bayton Road Industrial Estate in Exhall, Warwickshire.
Managed by Warwickshire County Council, the office contains five 'pods' providing a computer, telephone, broad-band connection, filing space and desk. The office also has a meeting room and reception facilities.
With leases of around £150 on one-month contracts, it is hoped the 35-square foot pods will offer entrepreneurs the space to get their business ideas off the ground.
Innovation centre manager Toni Wooldridge said: "While this project may not seem as sexy as those which provide iconic buildings, it will provide and protect something that is of equally vital importance - jobs.
"The centre is ideal for small businesses that need these facilities but don't have the right budget."
