Tees Valley export fund generates Β£12.3m global sales
The Tees Valley Export Fund has now backed more than 100 projects from across the region, helping firms connect with opportunities in 42 countries worldwide.
Countries including Iceland, Brazil, South Africa, Australia, and Japan are among those where links have been developed.
Worth an estimated Β£410,000, the first two rounds of funding have so far generated Β£12.3 million in export sales for Tees Valley businesses, with particular success in the digital and technology sector.
Fifteen grants awarded to firms in this sector have already delivered Β£7.6 million in overseas sales.
The scheme, created to grow both the volume and value of exports from the region, launched last year and continues to support companies through targeted funding.
It offers grants between Β£3,000 and Β£10,000 to help businesses start or expand their export efforts.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “We want more Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool businesses taking their products and expertise to the world.
“By supporting more than 100 opportunities across 42 countries, weβre helping our local firms realise their ambitions and show they have the capability to compete on a global stage.
“And itβs brilliant to see this backing bring a staggering extra Β£12.3 million in global sales for our companies, which means more money going into our region.
“Weβre backing our businesses with the support they need to break into new markets, and weβre helping bring more investment into our region to create jobs and boost our economy.”
The programme has already helped companies like Hart Biologicals in Hartlepool, which secured valuable opportunities by attending an industry congress in Germany.
It has also supported several gaming firms to attend the Games Developers Conference in San Francisco, strengthening Tees Valleyβs profile in the international gaming sector.
Funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the programme is delivered in partnership with the Department for Business and Trade.
Support is available for companies at all stages of the export journey, whether they are just starting out or looking to expand into new territories.
Firms must provide 25 per cent match funding to be eligible.
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke, who is also TVCA Cabinet Member for Inward Investment, Housing and Finance, said: “The kind of practical support available through the Export Programme can make a real difference for businesses looking to take that next step into exporting.
“These grants are helping firms open doors and secure global business.
“Itβs encouraging to see such a wide range of companies getting involved, securing sales and making the most of these opportunities.”