The £900,000 Prograta Fund has already attracted inquiries from a range of local companies, since its recent launch.

The fund, created by Malvern Hills Science Park, Herefordshire Council and the European Regional Development Fund, will be investing in new and established small and medium-sized businesses over the next 10 years.

Grants ranging from £1,000 to £25,000 will be awarded to companies that meet the eligibility criteria, mainly location.

Most of Herefordshire is covered by the fund, and also parts of the Malvern Hills, mainly in the north of the district, but also in the Wells and Chase wards of Malvern.

"We are now ready to release the application forms for funding and would encourage any potential applicants to contact us immediately, in readiness for our first Grant Award panel scheduled to take place in June," said Ian Page, the fund co-ordinator.

For more details, contact the office on 01684 585200.