A Silicon Valley venture capital firm is calling on early-stage founders and start-ups in the North West to apply for a new grant programme.
The initiative is the brainchild of Sterling Road managing partner Ash Rust, a native Lancastrian, turned entrepreneur and investor.
The Sterling Road North West Grant Fund programme will provide £1,000 grants to founders with promising business ideas or companies — with the goal of jump-starting or supporting each project.
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Sterling Road said the programme will run for a minimum of three years and will involve 25 companies every 12 months.
Mr Rust said: "As a born and bred Northerner, I know that the North West of England has a deep pool of talent and creativity, but lacks access to capital.
"Our hope is that initial grant winners continue their growth where Sterling Road can invest multiple times long term. I want to grab this opportunity to give back."