Local firms in South Lincolnshire enjoyed a welcome boost recently when the Sustainable Construction iNet business support bus stopped at the Springfields Outlet Shopping Centre, Spalding to offer free business and funding advice to firms in and around South Lincolnshire.

On board business advisors highlighted funding and business development opportunities for firms working in the areas of innovation technology and renewable energy, with those attending being given specific guidance on help available for research and development, together with potential routes to market for new ideas.

Barrie Billinghay, business advisor, Sustainable Construction iNet said: "South Lincolnshire is exactly the type of location which will benefit from the Sustainable Construction iNet. We were able to identify a number of different businesses within the construction sector that we will be able to help in the Spalding area alone, all free of charge."

Barrie continued: "Many firms approach us with a new product or innovative technology idea that's been halted at a crucial point. This is where the iNet steps in to assist by facilitating a suitable partner or offering funding and guidance on a specific element of the project. This in turn can help create new jobs and support companies wishing to expand."

Now in its second year the Sustainable Construction iNet, funded by East Midlands Development Agency (emda) and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), co-ordinates innovation support for businesses within the construction sector in the East Midlands. 

The 'business support bus' was part of the Sustainable Construction iNet's initiative to attract more referrals from South Lincolnshire and develop a strong network of contacts that can work together to build on the already well established construction sector within the area. 

To date the Sustainable Construction iNet has helped more than 35 businesses in the East Midlands region with targeted funding support, and more than 150 with specialist advice & guidance. It also aims to run 12 - 15 events throughout 2010 and expects to see upwards of 1500 firms utilising the network.

One of four iNets, it aims to achieve business growth and development and ultimately, create new jobs. Each iNet is a regional consortium, funded by East Midlands Development Agency (emda), which incorporates a range of stakeholders across businesses, universities and other bodies, who have shared interest and expert knowledge of the particular sector