Businesses across York and North Yorkshire are set to bring in millions in sales as they set out on export missions around the world.
Supported by the Get Exporting programme, the second round of projects announced today will unlock trade missions in new markets across North America, Europe and Asia for another 30 local businesses.
This builds on the first round which supported a further 40 businesses with grants between £3,000 up to £10,000 to help with the costs of establishing their business in new countries. It means that the full grant pot has been allocated.
David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said:
“We've seen what our incredible local businesses can achieve when they have the right support
“By tripling our exports grant pot, we’re backing ambition and unlocking more in new global trade.
“I’m excited to see more of our businesses grasp these global opportunities and continue the momentum we’re building across the region.”
A previous pilot scheme provided £200,000 in grants which generated more than £15 million in sales. By tripling the investment to £635,000, the Combined Authority estimates the current programme could unlock over £45 million in new global trade.
Among the successful applicants is Malton-based food business The Tofoo Company, which will use the funding to expand its footprint into the German market.
David Knibbs, Director of Tofoo Co, said:
"At The Tofoo Co, we’ve always been focused on bringing delicious, healthy, and sustainable products to consumers. We’re delighted to have secured the Get Exporting grant, which will support the next steps in our international growth journey and help us bring our tofu products to even more people. This project will help us grow our team, create new local opportunities, and further strengthen Malton’s reputation as Yorkshire’s award-winning Food Town."
Resimac Solutions, a manufacturer based in Thirsk, will use the grant to head out to Thailand to exhibit their products at one of their industries biggest events.
Andrew Donald, Global Business Development Manager at Resimac Limited, said:
“We have seen significant growth in sales of our Spray in Place Pipe (SIPP) linings into the Water Sector in Europe and the Americas. This grant will enable us to participate in Trenchless Asia, the primary exhibition for trenchless technologies in the region, allowing us to expand our networks and identify new potential partners to drive export growth in a region where we currently have a limited presence.”
York-based Simpson Associates will also benefit from the grant. Emma McGhin, Chief Marketing Officer at Simpson Associates, said:
"The Get Exporting grant programme presents a fantastic opportunity for Simpson Associates to start our export journey. Our data & AI solutions are easily transferable to industries in other markets, and the funding award has helped accelerate our entry into this area."
The Business Innovation Fund has come in five programmes focussing on ‘Sector Activity’, ‘Spin-Out and Start-Ups', ‘Get Exporting’, with ‘Great Ideas’ and ‘Get Funded’ launching over the coming months.
Last year, Mayor David Skaith launched three other Mayoral Challenge Funds including the £10 million Vibrant and Sustainable High Streets Fund, the £7 million Carbon Negative Challenge Fund and the £2.3 million Skills Innovation Fund.
For more information and to access the programme’s prospectus, please visit https://yorknorthyorks-ca.gov.uk/project/business-innovation-fund/
