Businesses and individuals across North East of England can now access support through the new North East Rural Growth Programme (NE-RGP), which is helping rural businesses grow, diversify, innovate and create jobs, alongside specialist regional support for the North East’s farming, food and drink sectors.

For businesses in Northumberland looking to access support through the North East Rural Growth Programme, guidance and advice will continue to be available through the Northumberland Small Business Service (NSBS).

As part of the county’s business support offer, NSBS will continue to work with eligible businesses to help them understand the opportunities available through the programme and connect them with the support most relevant to their needs.

The Northumberland Small Business Service (NSBS) is funded by the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority through its Rural Growth Programme and Integrated Settlement, with Northumberland County Council acting as the Lead Delivery Partner, supported by Durham County Council, Gateshead Council, Northumberland National Park Authority, Food and Drink North East Limited, and North East Enterprise Agency.

The North East Rural Growth Programme will provide tailored support to businesses operating within key rural sectors, including farming, food and drink, land-based industries and rural tourism.

Designed to boost productivity, encourage innovation and unlock new opportunities for growth, the initiative will help businesses navigate challenges, develop new products and services, and strengthen resilience.

Northumberland County Council Leader Glen Sanderson said: “Northumberland is home to some of the most innovative and resilient rural businesses in the country.

“From farming and food production to tourism and manufacturing, these businesses make a hugely important contribution to our economy and communities. This programme will provide valuable support to help businesses take the next step in their growth journey, creating jobs, driving investment and strengthening our rural economy.”

NSBS Programme Manager, Lucy Evermore added: “Delivering the support through NSBS, an already trusted programme across Northumberland, enables us to build on our excellent relationships with businesses across the county while extending our reach and connecting with more businesses across the wider North East.

“We look forward to continuing to support businesses here in Northumberland, while also working with our partners to ensure businesses across the region can benefit from the specialist support available through the North East Rural Growth Programme. It’s a great opportunity to build on what we already do well and extend that support to even more businesses across the region.”