Smallfry gets bigger thanks to RGN

It is not just new and recently-formed businesses that can take advantage of Micro Enterprise Grants from Warwickshire Rural Growth Network.

Wolston-based firm Smallfry has been at the forefront of industrial design ever since its formation in 1971.

The business has built up an excellent reputation specialising in working with companies both in developing new products and enhancing existing ones through the use of advanced engineering and design technologies.

It is state-of-the-art stuff in a competitive environment in which, in more than any other, it is vital to keep pace.

Smallfry have always done that, as illustrated by their work recently featuring, not for the first time, on BBC cult show The Gadget Show.

But, as director Steve May-Russell acknowledges, sometimes every business needs "a little nudge."

And last year Smallfry received one in the form of a £12,444 Micro Enterprise Grant to purchase a rapid prototype machine in order to enable projects to advance more quickly with the obvious benefits to business growth.

The grant was accessed via the Rural Development Programme for England, a seven-year programme (2007–2013) funded jointly by the EU, through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and the UK Government. 

"The machine was clearly going to benefit our business," said Steve, "but it was quite a significant investment for a small business so something to think about carefully.

"Basically, we just needed a little nudge and that's what we got when we found out that the grant might be available.

"I must admit that I wasn't aware of the Micro Enterprise Grant, so it was real surprise to get a call from a colleague in the industry suggesting we look into it. I'm very glad we did!"

Find out more about similar grant funding available to small rural businesses in Warwickshire by clicking here