CHEMICAL engineering firm AM Technology in Runcorn has received £2.1 million Government funding to move to larger premises with better facilities and attract private investors.

Eight jobs have been created over the past 12 months and one apprenticeship.

The money came from the regional growth fund set up in 2010 to help businesses to grow and stimulate private investment, creating and safeguarding thousands of vital local jobs.

Robert Ashe, managing director of AM Technology, said: “The regional growth fund has transformed the company by allowing us to invest in more research and development staff and undertake in-house testing and characterisation.

“The award of this grant has also been an important catalyst for raising money from private investors.”

The deputy Prime Minister will announce the fifth round of successful bids on Thursday, April 10, after 133 companies submitted bids across England, including 24 in the north west.

Businesses that can generate significant private sector investment and sustainable jobs are encouraged to apply for round six in the summer.

Visit gov.uk/understanding-the-regional-growth-fund for more information.