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Time running out on Malton and Norton business broadband grants
A scheme offering North Yorkshire businesses grants to improve their broadband connectivity will finish this month.
Ryedale District Council (RDC) and York, North Yorkshire and East Riding Local Enterprise Partnership are offering grants of up to £500 to go towards connection charges, new software, broadband contracts, training and other associated costs.
The scheme also provides financial support for employers looking to hire an IT specialist to review and give advice on how the organisation can benefit fully from high-speed broadband connectivity.
However, if they hope to access this funding source, local businesses must get their applications in by April 30th 2012.
Julian Rudd, head of economy and housing at the district council, said the local authority has been working to identify the broadband wants and needs of businesses in the area.
"Our research has shown that businesses that are able to access quality broadband can maximise growth and effectively use the technology to be competitive and develop," he explained.
RDC originally secured funding to trial the broadband grant scheme at York Road Industrial Estate in Malton, but was able to extend the initiative to the rest of Malton and Norton as some of the cash pot was still available.
Keith Knaggs, board member of the local enterprise partnership and leader of RDC, said the scheme represents an opportunity for businesses to boost their profits, invest and create new jobs by participating in the "modern digital world".
"I hope as many as possible will seize the opportunity," he commented.
Val Richards, chief executive of Derwent Training, which is supporting the project, stated the organisation is pleased to be working with RDC on the "much-needed" high-speed broadband facility.
She added: "Our own on-site facilities include online exam capability [and] short IT courses for beginners, as well as experienced users who want to increase their skills."