A new project launched by the county council aims to accelerate the growth of construction, maintenance and professional services across Staffordshire.

The Build and Scale programme will support businesses and help them to accelerate sustainable business growth leading to improved productivity, job creation, Gross Value Added, turnover and profit.

To be eligible, businesses must have been established between two and five years and be Staffordshire-based.

Successful applicants will work with a growth consultant to overcome potential problems and create a path to high growth.

The project will focus on the county's largest growth sectors which are property development and construction, trades such as electrical, plumbing, carpentry and subcontracting and professional services like legal, accountancy, architecture, surveying and consulting.

Robin Hall, Staffordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills, said: "We know there are ambitious businesses across Staffordshire with the potential to grow, create jobs and contribute even more to our local economy.

"The Build and Scale programme is about giving those businesses access to the expertise, support and challenge they need to take the next step.

"If we want higher productivity, better-paid jobs and stronger local communities, we need successful businesses.

advertisement

"That means backing entrepreneurs, supporting innovation and helping companies turn ambition into growth.

"This programme is another practical step towards building a stronger Staffordshire economy."

Staffordshire businesses can register interest here (excluding Stoke-on-Trent).