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Innovation fund has helped north-east jobseekers start their own business


By Kyle Ritchie

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An innovation fund launched by the UK Government has helped almost 800 north-east jobseekers to start up their own business with an innovation fund, new figures have revealed.

The New Enterprise Allowance scheme was introduced in 2011 and has helped more than 13,000 Scots into business with assistance at their local Jobcentre.

West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine MP Andrew Bowie has welcomed figures showing 310 of these were in Aberdeenshire, 220 in Aberdeen City and 240 in Angus.

And he has urged more people to discuss the scheme with work coaches and access a personal business mentor, weekly living allowance and financial backing for their start-up.

New entrepreneurs can get up to £25,000 to realise their ambitions.

Mr Bowie said: “I’m delighted that hundreds of north-east people have been given coaching, support and financing to help achieve their dreams.

“The past year has seen a steep rise in sudden unemployment and businesses having to close their doors.

West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine MP Andrew Bowie.
West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine MP Andrew Bowie.

“The fund is very much open and Jobcentre staff can give advice on how to help bounce back.

“Encouraging entrepreneurship, helping people back into employment and supporting businesses are key priorities for the UK Government and will help drive economic recovery as we build back better from the coronavirus pandemic.”

People can find out more information about the scheme at www.gov.uk/government/collections/new-enterprise-allowance-campaign


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