Council welcomes £1.5 million European Funding

European funding totalling £1.5 million which will benefit local businesses, people starting new businesses and young people seeking work has been officially accepted by West Lothian Council.
The funds will be invested in supporting these target groups through two key partnership projects:

The Business Gateway Plus European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) project aims to extend the scope of Business Gateway's existing services and respond to the current economic climate by supporting more companies and potential enterprises. The funding of £424,000 will deliver:

* Specialist e-business advice to assist existing enterprises maximise the potential of their websites, e-marketing and generate additional sales.
* Growth consultancy support for companies unable to access Scottish Enterprise account management.
* Entrepreneurship targeting underrepresented groups.

The Skills Pipeline European Social Fund (ESF) project has secured funding for two years of £1.08 million. The project will increase provide training opportunities for young people who are not in employment or training and provide practical support to help young people find and sustain a job.

West Lothian's executive councillor for Development and Transport, Martyn Day commented:

"West Lothian Council warmly welcomes this significant funding package, which provides a boost for local businesses, entrepreneurs and young people."