Small and micro businesses in rural areas of Westmorland and Furness can now apply for grants to bring in much needed money.

The grants and advice come from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the Rural England Prosperity Fund allocated by the local council.

Already, £1,016,378 has been awarded to the Cumbria Business Growth Hub for the delivery of business support in the former Eden and South Lakeland areas.

The funding is designed to help businesses overcome challenges facing them and respond positively to opportunities.

Added to this, farming businesses can be helped to respond to the phasing out of Basic Payment Scheme and wider challenges and opportunities, including diversification.

For more information and the application form, visit the website here.