A SPORTSWEAR maker and supplier hopes fresh financial backing will deliver new growth.

GRN Sportswear is aiming to secure £10,000 funding through Tees Valley Business Compass to branch out from its North-East roots.

Bosses at the Middlesbrough-based firm say the support will increase awareness of its brand and help the company attend major trade shows.

The business provides clothing for the cycling, triathlon and athletic wear markets, making its goods by using recycled materials, such as plastic bottles and abandoned fishing nets.

Founded in 2014 by directors Rob Webbon and Peter Lillie, GRN has been supported by Business Compass since 2016, with the latter helping the duo find a base for their venture.

The pair were put in touch with growth consultant Neil MacGillivray, who assisted with a switch to Teesside University’s Victoria Building, and later through the funding process.

Mr Lillie said: “GRN has grown and developed so much in only three years and the guidance and advice along the way has been instrumental to our progression.

“The ultimate aim is to develop the manufacturing process strictly within the Tees Valley, using local supply chains and sourcing goods within the UK, as we look to reduce our own carbon footprint.

Neil and the Business Compass team have been big supporters and the backing has allowed us to think differently and focus solely on growing the business.

“The funding will hopefully allow us to branch out of our traditional roots by amplifying the brand to more audiences, so we can tap into different markets.”

The support available for companies through Tees Valley Business Compass comes from an investment of more than £9.5m from the European Regional Development Fund, secured by Tees Valley Combined Authority.

Backing is available for growth, along with projects that increase broadband connectivity, research and development, innovation and energy efficiency.

Mr MacGillivray added: “GRN is a unique Tees Valley business, which is committed to reducing carbon footprints through the production of sustainable sportswear.

“The cycling and health and fitness markets have grown considerably in recent years and GRN’s unique offering is capitalising on this perfectly.

“It has been a pleasure to work with Rob, Peter and the team to support their business journey.”