SMALL businesses operating in the rural areas of Bromsgrove district are being invited to submit applications for the first round of funding in the LEADER programme.

The programme, which is being funded through the Rural Development Programme for England, will give very small companies in the area, the chance to apply for grant money from a pot of £1.96million.

People can already apply for grants to help support their business in buying new equipment, or constructing new offices or factories. The grants also support rural tourism, helping to fund e-booking systems, or equipment for restaurants or cafes which might attract tourists, or even to encourage people to use attractions such as cycle routes or waterways.

Councillor Simon Geraghty, Worcestershire County Council cabinet member for economy, skills and infrastructure, said: "This is a great opportunity to really grow our rural business infrastructure. Worcestershire is a county with a thriving rural and agricultural economy, and I encourage any business, whether looking to start up or to expand, to submit an application."

The closing date for applications to the programme is Monday, February 1. For more information or an application form, contact Hollie Kirk, project manager on 07957 632520 or write to hkirk@worcestershire.gov.uk. Alternatively visit business-central.co.uk/leader.