The second round of the Worcestershire Growth Fund (www.wlep.co.uk) is now open for applications from businesses looking for grants up to £100,000 to help them create jobs and improve productivity.

The capital grant scheme was announced towards the end of last year and is financed by the Worcestershire Growth Deal. Expressions of interest are being sought by the end of May; successful applicants will then be invited to prepare a full business case.

Gary Woodman, executive director of the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “The Worcestershire Growth Fund will continue to have a positive impact for many expanding businesses in Worcestershire, boosting productivity and creating jobs within the county.”

The fund is looking for initiatives that will increase productivity, create sustainable jobs in Worcestershire and have match funding of at least 50%. It will run until March 2018, subject to availability and while funds last.