The project will help micro-enterprises in rural parts of the region with elements such as start-up revenue and capital investment costs, technical and marketing support, product development, branding and design.

Examples of projects funded under the pilot scheme include: Aldin Grange Farm, near Bearpark in County Durham, invested £9,500 in upgrading its farm shop and developing fishing lake facilities; and Pastures New Livery, near Belsay, received support towards the costs of establishing an outdoor equine arena as part of the development of their livery business.

The scope of the projects has been broadened, which means that the installation of micro renewables on farms is also now eligible, for example wind turbines, micro-hydro, biomass boilers and heat exchangers.

Adrian Sherwood, One North East’s RDPE manager, said: “RDPE acts as a catalyst for these businesses to access the wealth of mainstream support, which is essential for their growth and sustainability.

“The funding is about helping rural businesses develop alternate sources of income which will in turn help our farming, food and forestry industries thrive and become more competitive, all together enhancing opportunity for rural businesses and communities in the region.”

Any farm or micro-business wanting to find out more about the full package of funding should contact Business Link on 0845 600 9006 or visit www.businesslink.gov.uk/northeast. For more information on RDPE in North East England, visit: www.rdpenortheast.co.uk