NORTH-EAST companies are being urged to apply for funding to help their businesses flourish.

The Investment for Growth scheme offers grants to firms, which can be used to fund long-term projects, as well as create and safeguard jobs.

The programme, launched last year, has already supported more than 600 businesses and been awarded about £2.4m.

Cheryl Blakey, Investment for Growth, senior project manager, said: “We have had a phenomenal response so far and it’s fantastic that we’ve been able to help so many companies.

“Investment for Growth is making a real impact, it is safeguarding jobs and boosting the region’s economy, but there is still more to do and funding available.”

Businesses interested in applying for funding should contact 0191-426-6408.