European funding helps launch projects in Northamptonshire to help businesses grow

A grant of £6.5 million has been awarded to the University of Northampton to help businesses in the county thrive.
Professor Simon Denny and Cllr Andre Gonzalez De Savage signing the agreementProfessor Simon Denny and Cllr Andre Gonzalez De Savage signing the agreement
Professor Simon Denny and Cllr Andre Gonzalez De Savage signing the agreement

The money, secured Northamptonshire International Unit set up with the help of Northamptonshire County Council, will create two support groups to help firms innovate and plan for the future.

The unit includes team members from both organisations and works to secure funding for the county. The £6.5 million comes from a grant from the European Regional Development Fund.

Two new projects will now be launched:

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* Innovate Northamptonshire (with a value of £3.7 million) will support innovation-ready companies to break new ground, including the development of new products and adoption of new technology.

* Ready2Grow (with a value of £2.8 million) will help companies develop the skills they need to plan for their future by offering a range of training and skills support.

These projects will also receive Local Enterprise Partnership support.

Professor Simon Denny, from the University of Northampton, said: “The university and the county council already work together very effectively to support the economic growth of the county. This new partnership will significantly increase our chances of bringing investment, funding and expertise from around the world to Northamptonshire, for the benefit of all.”

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Cllr Andre Gonzalez De Savage, deputy leader of the county council, added: “Working together with the University of Northampton has numerous advantages and already we’re seeing significant benefits. This latest initiative will help build more resilience in the county in terms of attracting investment, which will help increase prosperity.”