BUSINESSES in Halesowen and Sandwell could be eligible for grants of up to £16,000 to support their growth.

Black Country GOLD, which offers business development support and finance to small and medium size enterprises, is inviting applications to aid expansion projects.

The grant covers 50 per cent of project costs with the balance being contributed by the business.

Firms in advanced manufacturing, building technologies, business services, environmental technologies and transport technologies can apply.

The scheme runs until the end of June 2015, with the deadline for final applications likely to be next March but, as available finance is limited, businesses are urged to apply as soon as possible.

Applications submitted by Thursday September 18 will be considered in October.

For details visit www.wolverhamptonbsc.com/bcgold