Export fund delivers £12.3 million boost

A regional export programme is driving global growth for Tees Valley businesses.

The Tees Valley Export Fund has supported more than 100 projects across the region, connecting businesses with opportunities in 42 countries including Brazil, Japan, Australia and South Africa. 

Backed by around £410,000 in funding, rounds one and two of the programme have generated £12.3 million in export sales to date.

Grants of between £3000 and £10,000 have enabled companies to start or expand their export activity, with particularly strong results in the digital and technology sector, where 15 firms alone generated £7.6 million in sales.

The initiative, launched last year, aims to increase both the number of exporting businesses and the overall value of exports from the region.

Firms have used the funding to attend international trade events and secure new opportunities, including Hartlepool-based Hart Biologicals, which developed new leads by attending a key industry congress in Germany.

The export programme also helped a string of firms from the region's gaming industry to attend the recent Games Developers Conference (GDC), in San Francisco.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said: “We want more Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool businesses taking their products and expertise to the world.

“By supporting more than 100 opportunities across 42 countries, we’re helping our local firms realise their ambitions and show they have the capability to compete on a global stage.

“And it’s brilliant to see this backing bring a staggering extra £12.3 million in global sales for our companies, which means more money going into our region.

“We’re backing our businesses with the support they need to break into new markets, and we’re helping bring more investment into our region to create jobs and boost our economy.”

Middlesbrough mayor Chris Cooke, Tees Valley Combined Authority cabinet member for inward investment, housing and finance, added: “The kind of practical support available through the Export Programme can make a real difference for businesses looking to take that next step into exporting.

“These grants are helping firms open doors and secure global business.

“It’s encouraging to see such a wide range of companies getting involved, securing sales and making the most of these opportunities.”

Delivered with the Department for Business and Trade and funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the programme continues to offer support to eligible businesses, with grants still available on a first come, first served basis through the Tees Valley Export Fund.

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