Oldham business owners can apply for grants of up to £1,000 from a funding pot of more than £200,000.

It comes after the money was made available by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Oldham Council.

In total, £220,000 could be spent as part of the drive to boost the town’s economy and create more jobs for local people.

Cllr Fida Hussain, Cabinet member for business, employment and enterprise, said: “We’re determined to boost business and jobs in Oldham which is why we’re supporting new start-ups or ambitious businesses which need help to grow.

“So, if you are an Oldham entrepreneur or looking to start up in the borough and need a helping hand to help us make a more prosperous Oldham, we want to hear from you.”

The grant scheme, which aims to create 40 new enterprises, will be run by Oldham Enterprise Trust.

The second scheme will aim to support the growth of businesses in the borough – and only applications from businesses where growth results in new jobs being created before March 31, 2025, will be considered.

Priority will be given to businesses in key sectors including manufacturing, construction, digital and creative and low carbon or green technology. Applicants can apply from April 2.

Residents wishing to apply should do so via the Oldham Enterprise Trust website.