BOLTON Business Ventures helped 23 local companies obtain Government expansion grants in the last six months of 1995. The enterprise agency says the total amount involved was £579,000, which went towards total investment costs of nearly £1 million. BBV says a further 13 applications are currently awaiting a decision.

If successful they will release an additional £450,000 to £500,000 of regional assistance.

Chief executive Paul Davidson said: "This is exactly the sort of investment Bolton needs to ensure that our industries remain competitive and aspire to world-class standards.

"Financial assistance is available towards new investment and new capacity and BBV provides the most successful grant-finding service through its computerised databases and 12 years of operating experience." Initial consultations are free and subsequent appointments are charged at a fixed rate of £50 plus VAT.

John Davies is the Loan Funds Manager at BBV in Lower Bridgeman Street.

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