A GROUNDBREAKING £2.9 million support programme has been launched to help create new companies and transform old ones.

Worcestershire County Council chiefs have teamed up with business leaders to launch a help package which aims to rapidly improve the county’s economy.

Mainly aimed at people looking to start their own business, the programme, called Enterprise Worcestershire, will offer support, coaching and finance.

Advice sessions and guidance will also be on offer to established companies looking to survive the choppy waters of 2013.

The £2.9 million funding pot has been created after cash was brought together from the European Regional Development Fund, the county council and councils including Redditch and Bromsgrove.

Peter Pawsey, chairman of Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, welcomed the news saying it will also help create jobs.

“This package of financial support and business advice will encourage those thinking of either starting or investing in their business in Worcestershire to take the plunge,” he said.

For more information about the support on offer, call 01905 766925 or e-mail sbrain@worcestershire.gov.uk.