New scheme launched for businesses in North Yorkshire

The Great Ideas programme, part of the Mayor’s Business Innovation Fund, has been launched by the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, David Skaith, to support businesses of all sizes with expert guidance and grants of up to £60,000.

Mr Skaith said: "We have always been home to creators and entrepreneurs, but too often, brilliant ideas stay on the drawing board because the right support isn't there.

"With Great Ideas, we are providing a unique platform for businesses of all sizes to tap into world-class advice and substantial financial backing."

Harriet Stainton, York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub Delivery Manager, David Ryden, Head of Business Growth and Innovation at York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, Nicki Clark, CEO of UMI, and John Frankland, Yorkshire Consulting (Image: York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority)

The programme helps businesses develop new products or services or take existing ideas to the next stage.

Investment-ready businesses will present to a panel of regional experts who will decide on funding and offer intensive support to bring ideas to market.

UMi, an experienced business support provider, will deliver the programme over two years.

Nicki Clark, chief executive at UMi, said: "We are excited to be working with the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority to bring the Great Ideas Programme to the region, contributing to strengthened innovation culture and celebrating the creativity of local businesses."