More than 370 companies have been helped to grow after receiving support from a partnership led by Teesside University.
The Innovate Tees Valley project has now come to an end after running for nearly three years. But during that time the scheme has helped hundreds of business grow and innovate across the region.
Those who gained access to the scheme were able to take advantage of mentoring, academic consultancy, innovation advice and support, and part-funded graduate placements.
In total 372 SMEs took part in the project, which helped to create 40 jobs and produce 144 new products.
Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said: “Innovate Tees Valley has been a hugely successful initiative. The number of local companies that have taken advantage of this programme shows just how entrepreneurial and ambitious our region’s businesses are.
“The programme’s record of success in enhancing collaboration, growing innovation capacity and creating high-quality, well-paid career opportunities speaks for itself. Its successful delivery is a credit to Teesside University.”
The partnership was delivered by Teesside University along with North East Process Industry Cluster, the Materials Processing Institute and DigitalCity.
It was part-funded by an ERDF grant and supported by the Tees Valley Combined Authority.
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The success of Innovate Tees Valley has resulted in the creation of a new three-year support programme, which will soon be announced.
Those wishing to take part in the new scheme are being encouraged to contact Teesside University for more information.
Laura Woods, director of academic enterprise at Teesside University, said: “Innovate Tees Valley set out to help SMEs meet the challenges of growth and help them develop and exploit new ideas.
“We’re delighted at the success of the project and the impact it is continuing to make in the Tees Valley. Innovate Tees Valley is now firmly established as a key element of the region’s innovation strategy.
“We’re looking forward to building on these successes over the next three years.”