BUSINESSES in east Cheshire can take advantage of two schemes to help them reap the benefits of superfast broadband.

Small and medium-sized businesses could get grants of up to £3,000 to upgrade to a superfast or ultrafast broadband connection.

The funding is available through the Connection Voucher Scheme, which is available at 31 business parks and estates in the east Cheshire borough.

And eligible businesses have until May 1, 2015 to register for the free superfast business programme.

Successful applicants receive 12 hours of expert business support on topics such as social media and purchasing the most appropriate business software.

The Connection Voucher Scheme is run as a partnership between Cheshire East Council and Manchester City Council.

It rovides grants of up to £3,000 to cover the capital and equipment costs of upgrading a broadband connection.

Funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, the scheme brings faster internet speeds within the reach of smaller organisations.

After receiving a voucher, companies only have to pay VAT, anything over £3,000 and the monthly subscription fee for their new broadband connection.

A voucher can be claimed by an individual organisation, or several can apply as a group, through a landlord or agent. Availability can be checked at www.connectionvouchers.co.uk.

Julian Cobley, head of investment at Cheshire East Council: "The businesses that have taken advantage of the support available to them are already predicting growth that would boost the Cheshire and Warrington economy by more than £2m.

"With the addition of Connection Voucher scheme, we're delighted to be extending the range of support available to businesses through the Connecting Cheshire project."

The Connecting Cheshire Superfast Business Programme has provided over 10,000 hours of free support to more than 600 companies since its launch in 2013.

It offers free workshops, masterclasses and one-to-one consultations from industry experts to help businesses get the most out of digital technology.

For details, visit www.ccbusiness.co.uk.