Communities 2.0 Welsh government programme will see new IT-based businesses receive help in starting up.
Expert IT advice and possible funding will be offered to budding entrepreneurs in Wales who plan to start a new business venture that will depend on the use of computer technology for success, including businesses that sell or take orders online, provide information or advice online, service IT equipment or develop new software, hardware, websites or apps.
The Communities 2.0 programme, which is run by the Welsh Government, helps people to get online and will this year offer help for businesses in North and West Wales, the South Wales Valleys, Bridgend, Neath Port Talbot and Swansea that employ between one and nine people and for which the use of computers or the internet is essential in the running of the business.
Included in the project will be the offer of expert IT advice and free comprehensive ICT reviews that will provide recommendations specific to the business and staff training needs, as well as limited matched funding ranging between £1,000 ($1,600/€1,170) and £5,000 ($7,900/€5,800), although applicants will also be expected to contribute some of their own finances.
The project comes after it was identified that microbusinesses are a vital part of the Welsh economy and Welsh communities, accounting for 94.5 percent of all businesses in Wales during 2011 and sustaining over 330,000 jobs.
Commenting on the project, Marc Davies, Project Manager of Communities 2.0, said: ““This project allows us to offer new-start businesses in Wales a service which supports business growth and helps them compete effectively both nationally and internationally. If you are considering a new start this year, come and speak to us, we may be able to help you make your resolution a reality.”