HAMPSHIRE firms are being urged to state their case for money from a national pot of cash that is aimed at boosting growth.

This follows an announcement from Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg for companies to bid for a slice of funding in the sixth round of the Regional Growth Fund.

The £200m fund will give businesses across the UK the chance to put growth plans into action and safeguard or create jobs by bidding for part of the cash.

Welcoming the announcement Tony Edwards, a partner at Baker Tilly, who has advised on more than 30 successful RGF applications, said: “Eligible private sector firms across the country who are planning projects that will generate significant investment and sustainable jobs will be able to apply for grant funding worth more than £1m each, but it’s important that they take account of the recent changes to State Aid rules and act quickly before the window of opportunity shuts on September 30 this year.”