BUSINESSES across the East Riding are set to benefit from a £4.4 million grants from East Riding Council and the European Regional Development Fund to help take advantage of digital technologies.

The funding, from East Riding Council and the European Regional Development Fund, has been used to the Broadband East Riding project, offering a free business support programme.

The aim is to help eligible businesses learn about and exploit advanced technology and discover the opportunities that high-speed broadband can offer.

The programme includes guidance from a dedicated business adviser providing one-to-one advice, combined with an external Search Engine Optimisation Audit, which includes an action plan to take forward.

Various workshops and training courses are also being provided, covering a range of topics devised to get the most out of being connected and to assist with business growth.

Councillor Jane Evison, cabinet portfolio holder for economy, investment and inequalities, said: “Having access to the internet is an important aspect of modern life with many of us using it on a daily basis to keep in contact with family and friends or commercially, with many businesses requiring a secure, reliable and faster connection in order to compete and trade.

“The Broadband East Riding business support scheme will help eligible businesses get the most out of modern technology and embrace the opportunities presented by high-speed broadband.”

To find out more visit: broadband.eastriding.gov.uk/business-support