Local business owners are invited to a free seminar in Leicestershire next month (February) to find out if they are eligible to claim back funds spent on research and development.

Figures show that 40% of businesses that have invested money in research and development fail to claim back the money they are entitled to. The government has a wide definition of research and development and the seminar, which is a being held on Tuesday 7th February at Market Harborough's new Innovation Centre, will assist companies in checking their eligibility for funding.

The event will include a presentation by HMRC (Leicester R & D Unit) on the research and development scheme, followed by Richard Cullum, Managing Partner of R & T Consultants who will explain how to make a claim. There are several other confirmed speakers offering their expertise and the event is being introduced by James Briggs, former chair of the Leicestershire Economic Partnership.

"Few people realise that you don't have to be a multinational company to make an R & D claim," explains Richard. "Many smaller companies who conduct research and development projects are entitled to claim. Unfortunately, most of these companies don't realise that through tax credit schemes they can claim back a majority of the money they have invested."

The seminar will give everyone attending the opportunity to find out if they are entitled to claim and will offer advice and assistance in putting forward a claim.

To book your place on the seminar contact 01858 414200 or e-mail reception.harborough@oxin.co.uk. Due to anticipated demand, places are restricted to a maximum of two per company.