Manufacturing programme delivers 7000 West Midlands jobs amid plea to prevent funding blackhole
One of the UK’s most successful industrial business support programmes will come to an end this month after helping West Midlands firms create or safeguard over 7000 jobs since 2016.
The Manufacturing Growth Programme (MGP), which is designed and delivered by Oxford Innovation Advice, has also helped Marches manufacturers create 236 jobs in that time.
But the programme will see funding from the European Regional Development Fund end this month.
And it is now urging the Government and local authorities to ensure that tailored advice for manufacturing SMEs is quickly put in place.
Jane Galsworthy, Managing Director of Oxford Innovation Advice, said: “In the current economic climate, where businesses face multiple pressures from inflation, high energy prices, supply chain challenges and reduced consumer spending, the programme and its objectives are still as relevant now as they were back in 2016.
“It is now more important than ever that businesses have access to high-quality business support services and specialist expertise to help them achieve their growth potential. This, in turn, will enhance the economy, create job opportunities, and ensure the prosperity of our local communities.”
