The Keighley Towns Funds have recently provided financial assistance to two local businesses, resulting in the creation of four jobs and two apprenticeships. In addition, other businesses are encouraged to apply for this funding opportunity.
Part of the government-funded Towns Fund, the Capital Assistance to Business Growth Programme aims to support local businesses in the Keighley and Shipley areas, with a total of £4m available and approximately £2m allocated to each town. Grants are distributed by Towns Fund boards, consisting of private sector representatives, with support from Bradford Council.
The funding has been utilized for a variety of projects by businesses across the district, such as facility expansions, modernization, and upgrading equipment for improved efficiency.
For instance, George Green of Keighley Ltd, a company specializing in the design, supply, and installation of pipework and fabricated metal products, has benefited from the funding. With the assistance of a £21,192.49 grant, the company has invested in new equipment and technology, resulting in the creation of two new jobs and two apprenticeships.
Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw of Bradford Council highlighted the positive impact of the funding, emphasizing the growth experienced by the businesses that have received it and the creation of new jobs for the area. He also mentioned that grants ranging from £1,500 to £315,000 are still available for businesses within the Keighley and Shipley Towns Fund Areas.
Ian Hayfield, chairman of Keighley Towns Fund, expressed delight in the significant difference the funding has made to local businesses, encouraging interested businesses to apply for the available funding.
Furthermore, Fretwell Print and Design, a business in Keighley, received £19,989 towards replacing their printer with a new model, resulting in the creation of two new production operative roles.
Joint Managing Director Andy Gillett emphasized the benefits of securing the grant, highlighting the increase in productivity and energy savings made possible by the new machine. He also recommended other businesses to explore the support available for local businesses.
