LOCAL entrepreneurs who want to start their own business could get a cash hand-out of up to £500 from Eastleigh Council.

In partnership with the local Enterprise Agency, the council has launched an enterprise scheme with a two-pronged aim: to help local people start their own fledgling businesses and to promote Eastleigh Business Centre, which already has over 80 small firms successfully trading from its town-centre location.

To qualify for an enterprise grant, applicants must get Enterprise Agency approval of their business plan and be willing to take accommodation in the Eastleigh Business Centre in Upper Market Street.

Applicants must also have yet to have commenced trading - although exceptions are made for people who have recently set up a business from their home.

Once accepted, the Borough Council will subsidise 50 per cent of the rental costs at the business centre, up to a maximum of £500.

The centre offers offices of various sizes, let on a monthly all-inclusive basis which avoids the need for a long-term financial commitment. Conference facilities, secretarial services and parking are all available.

Neil Hendricks, chief executive of South West Hampshire Enterprise Agencies, said: "We welcome the initiative launched by Eastleigh Borough Council. The enterprise scheme, when added to our free business advice service, gives new businesses the perfect start."

Economic development officer Mark Allery said: "Encouraging new small businesses is a key objective. We hope that the financial assistance will help support the new business through the crucial first months of trading."

For further information, contact Hampshire Enterprise Agencies on 02380 788088 or Eastleigh Coun-cil's economic development unit on 02380 688045.

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