THE National Glass Centre (NGC) is playing its part in helping aspiring craftspeople.
The Sunderland centre has built five units for small to medium-sized businesses (SMEs), which glass-makers can hire for up to 12 months. The workshops, built with funding from the Arts Council and European Regional Development Fund, also give businesses access to an IT suite and discounted rates for studio equipment.
The centre has also set up the "Glass Highway", a package of support services aimed at providing businesses who have been trading less than three years with advice, mentoring and technical information.
Chief executive Jules Preston said: "The NGC is now able to provide information and advice to help stimulate and support business start-ups in the glass sector.
"It is hoped that this level of support will encourage graduates to stay in the region to increase levels of local economic growth and development."
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