Helen Southworth (Warrington South, Labour)

To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what business support measures from his Department are available to small and medium-sized businesses in Warrington.

Rosie Winterton (Doncaster Central, Labour)

The Government fully appreciate the challenges faced by small and medium-sized businesses, especially during these difficult economic times, and we provide real help to businesses in the Warrington area through a wide range of business support. Details are set out in our 'Real Help' publication for the north-west which can be found at:

http://realhelpnow.hmg.gov.uk/pdf/northwest.pdf

The Northwest Regional Development Agency also provide a broad range of business support in areas such as small business loans (from £3,000 to £50,000), grants, venture capital (ranging from £50,000 to £250,000), start-up, innovation and efficiency, high growth, international trade, training and development, and specific sector-based initiatives in areas such as manufacturing, digital and creative, business and professional services—full details can be found at:

http://www.nwda.co.uk/publications/business/support-for-northwest-business.aspx

Any business looking for support can access it through Business Link Northwest by visiting:

www.businesslink.gov.uk