Cheshire East Council is encouraging SME businesses in the borough to access free recovery and growth programme – which includes support to help them apply for grant funding.

The council's Recovery and Growth Programme was officially launched this week and is aimed at assisting eligible businesses that are seeking to grow, adapt, diversify or expand their current operation to support their long-term sustainability.

The programme is accessed via an online hub and offers a number of support options depending on the individual needs of the business.

It includes a wealth of resources, templates and tools, on-demand short webinars and access to live masterclasses. Businesses can also contact the programme's team of expert advisers and mentors for one-to-one support.

Cllr Nick Mannion, chair of Cheshire East Council's economy and growth committee, said: "Throughout the pandemic we have seen just how incredibly resilient our business community is, as well as the strength of their determination to see their businesses thrive despite the challenges.

"Our Recovery and Growth Programme is about supporting our SMEs to realise their ambitions and grow, and to give them access to the tools, information and advice needed.

"From cash-flow forecasting and developing a pitch, to full business diagnostics, our programme has been designed to support them at whatever their stage of development."

Access to one-to-one business support also includes help to apply for a Recovery and Growth Grant.

The grant is to support businesses seeking to invest in their premises, facilities or equipment to enable them to reopen quickly, bring staff and customers safely back to work, or to capitalise on new opportunities.

Grants of between £5,000 and £25,000 towards eligible investments can be applied for retrospectively. The scheme will close to applications on Friday 17 December.

For more information and to register for the Cheshire East Council Recovery and Growth Programme, visit: