Caroline Dinenage MP praised local businesses yesterday following meetings with three companies who have successfully bid for grants from the 'Bridging the Gap' Fund.
Kev Jones & Son, Fluid Profiling, and Blitz Photography were the three thriving firms that have received financing from 'Bridging the Gap' which was the brainchild of the Gosport MP. The fund, which has so far safeguarded or created 166 jobs, and backed business to the tune of over £3 million, chimes with the Prime Minister's speech at Conservative Party Conference yesterday, in which he commended the contribution that small businesses make to the economy.
Commenting, Caroline said:
"Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy, and it's fantastic that the 'Bridging the Gap' Fund is helping some brilliant local firms to expand and create jobs in our area. The Prime Minister was spot on in his speech yesterday when he said that we should be celebrating and supporting businesses that provide jobs, raise living standards and create success for our country.
I'm delighted by the work 'Bridging the Gap' are doing to back local firms; since its launch in June 2012, the fund has provided over £1 million worth of finance, and I would urge all local businesses to get involved and apply before the next round closes on 18th October 2013. It's through this kind of investment that we can secure good jobs for our area."
The 'Bridging the Gap' Fund was introduced following a successful bid for Government Regional Growth Funding by the Gosport MP, Portsmouth News and the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership. It received over 100 applications for grants from local companies and entrepreneurs in the first round alone. The Fund's success highlights Caroline's work in promoting the Gosport peninsula as a great place to do business.