28/02/2011 - Permalink

Publishing company expands thanks to business grant

Related topics: Uncategorized

A Shrewsbury-based business is to expand and employ additional staff after receiving a grant from Shropshire Council’s Business Enterprise Fund.

Chemical Watch is based in Longden Coleham and publishes news and intelligence to help companies meet their responsibilities under environmental and chemicals legislation worldwide.

To aid their expansion, managing director Julian Rose successfully applied for a £5000 grant towards new IT equipment.

Julian said:

“We’re very grateful for the funding received from the Business Enterprise Fund which has enabled us to expand the team by two in Shrewsbury, where we now employ seven people. Chemicals is a truly global sector, and our website draws subscribers from around the worldwide seeking the latest news. Three-quarters of our sales are generated from overseas subscribers
and advertisers.”

Councillor Mike Owen, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for economy said:

“I’m delighted that a grant from the Business Enterprise Fund has enabled Chemical Watch to expand their business and I wish them well for the future. By supporting local businesses and helping to create employment opportunities, the Shropshire Business Enterprise Fund really is making a positive contribution to the county’s economy.”

Shropshire Business Enterprise Fund provides grants of up to £1,500 for start up, new and retail businesses, and up to £5,000 for businesses between nine and 36 months old. All businesses invest at least 30% themselves towards the cost of
the project.

To date over 130 Shropshire businesses have received a grant through the fund, with 90 of these starting up for the first time and 40 expanding in size.

The fund is a competitive process, with all applicants scored against assessment criteria and a limited amount of funding available each round.

The next application deadline is 31 January 2011 but a further round is planned for March 2011.

For more information about the Business Enterprise Fund, call 01743 252259 or visit www.shropshire.gov.uk/sbef