Businesses are being urged to bid for a share of £100,000 to boost the rural economy and jobs.
Leicestershire County Council wants to support small companies working in the food and drink and creative sectors.
The grants will be issued by the Leicestershire Rural Partnership and the bidding deadline is July 10.
County cabinet member Pam Posnett, chairman of the rural partnership, praised the input of small businesses.
She said: "Small firms are the life-blood of our economy and I hope that rural businesses will take advantage of the grants, to help them develop and grow. This is the second year we have run the grant programme – last year we backed a series of schemes, including a garden centre café, development of a new caravan site and expansion of business premises."
Rob Morton, proprietor of the Hallaton-based Bottle Kicking Cider Company, received a grant last year. He said: "The assistance the Leicestershire Rural Partnership has given us has been invaluable.
"We have been able to carry out our expansion plans with confidence, and we are now in a position to fulfil our increased demand"
For further information concerning the rural business grants ring Peter McLaren on 0116 305 3910. You can also download an application form and accompanying guidance notes by emailing Peter or visiting:
www.oakleaves.org.uk
peter.mclaren@leics.gov.uk
