All RDAs across England are closing by March 2012
(see transition and closure section).
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£500,000 to support silicon design in the South West
29 July 2009
An estimated 250 companies working in microelectronics design
across the region are set to benefit from an announcement of
£500,000 funding from the Government's Department for Business,
Innovation & Skills (BIS).
The Advanced Manufacturing strategy announced on Tuesday by Lord
Mandelson commits to a significant level of support to fund
innovative work in the microelectronics design sector. This
investment includes in future a Centre of Excellence for Silicon
Design in the South West.
With £500,000 for the initial project, it will assist around 250
companies, potentially creating up to 100 new jobs and have an
impact on up to 200 firms linked to the business cluster.
The strategy also sets out a range of support measures for
businesses which use a high level of design or scientific skills to
produce technologically complex products and processes.
As part of the strategy negotiations are also underway for the
Government to provide 'Repayable Launch Investment' to Airbus for
wing design at Filton in Bristol. This will enhance the skills and
capabilities of the company's 10,500 workforce in Bristol on what
is the most technologically advanced part of aircraft
structure.
Stephen Peacock, Executive Director for Enterprise and
Innovation at the South West RDA, said: "This investment recognises
the strategic importance of the microelectronics cluster in
underpinning many industries from a digital Britain to support our
low carbon agenda."
Ends
Notes to editors
The South West RDA leads the development of a sustainable
economy, investing to unlock the region's business potential. It is
helping companies respond to the economic crisis and charts a
course for recovery. The RDA is developing or expanding initiatives
which include: establishing a Business Loan Fund; coordinating the
response to large companies in difficulty; preparing for economic
recovery. More information can be found at www.southwestrda.org.uk.
For more details contact: South West RDA press office: 01392
229389 - or on Twitter at SWRDAPress
Fiona Clampin
PR Consultant
South West RDA
Tel: +44 (0)1392 229188
Email: fiona.clampin@southwestrda.org.uk
Website: www.southwestrda.org.uk
Contact Details
Name: Fiona Clampin
Tel: +44 (0)1392 229188
Email: fiona.clampin@southwestrda.org.uk