A 3D SIMULATION company is targeting global expansion after receiving £1.5m in funding to fuel its growth.

Caspian Learning produces 3D games and simulations for the education and training markets, and its client list includes Volvo, Bertlesmann Media, Learndirect and the Ministry of Defence, which has adopted Caspian's simulations and games as part of itstraining and development programme.

The Sunderland-based company - which was set up in 2004 and now employs 20 people - is looking to expand its unique Thinking Worlds technology on an international scale, and is eyeing a move into the US market later this year.

Graeme Duncan, chief executive of Caspian Learning, said its technology is versatile.

"Our technology is truly captivating and can be used to create a whole range of highly contextual, engaging and effective 3D learning experiences," he said.

"Within education for example, a student may be answering a question about how blood gets around the body while exploring a 3D set of lungs. From a corporate perspective, Volvo used us to develop product and sales training to its entire dealer franchise across the UK through virtual 3D car showrooms."

Caspian Learning's £1.5m grant comprised £800,000 from NorthStar Equity Investors' Co-Investment Fund (CoIF), £400,000 from new investor Hotspur Capital and £300,000 from existing investor Enterprise Ventures via the Coalfields Enterprise Fund and RisingStars Growth Fund.

Alasdair Greig, investment manager at NSEI, said: "Caspian has an experienced team at the helm and has already made tremendous progress.

"Its technology has been received extremely well from a variety of markets and we look forward to supporting the business into its next phase of growth."