Two multi-million pound grant schemes are being launched in Flintshire and Wrexham today – kick-starting an exciting new era for advanced manufacturing in the region.
Aimed at small to medium enterprises (SMEs), the schemes have been created to increase business growth.
They are part of the new Flintshire and Wrexham Investment Zone, which is being backed by both the UK and Welsh governments, and co-ordinated by Ambition North Wales.
Both the Flintshire County Council and the Wrexham Council schemes will offer grants from £5k up to £100k (at least 30% match funded by each company) to local manufacturing firms in their local authority area.
Businesses will be able to apply from Monday, February 2 and will be able to use the money for:
- Capital equipment purchases to enhance manufacturing capabilities.
- Accreditation and certification to improve supply chain opportunities, improved turnover and growth.
- Property adaptations and green site modifications to allow businesses to transition to more sustainable operations.
Together, the schemes will allocate £6m in grants over the next three years.
Councillor Dave Hughes, Leader of Flintshire County Council, said: “The Investment Zone is a hugely positive step for Flintshire and Wrexham, and will give us a platform to attract new investment to the region – helping to create jobs and inspire the next generation of businesses leaders and skilled workers.
“The launch of these grants shows the kind of opportunities the Investment Zone will bring, and I hope as many local businesses as possible will apply.”
Councillor Mark Pritchard, Leader of Wrexham Council and Chair of Ambition North Wales, said: “The advanced manufacturing sector is crucial to our economy, and a lot of world-class manufacturers are already based here.
“We now need to build on this and show that we’re a true powerhouse for advanced industry in Wales, and I hope that local firms take advantage of these grants. This is a golden opportunity for the sector.”
SMEs are defined as businesses with fewer than 250 employees and while the region is home to a number of major global companies, SMEs account for 97.4% of all businesses in both Flintshire and Wrexham.
As a result, SMEs are seen as crucial to the growth of the advanced manufacturing sector in North East Wales.
Find our more…
For more information on the Flintshire scheme, visit the Flintshire County Council website.
For more information on the Wrexham scheme, visit the Wrexham Council website.
