Nearly one third (31%) of all businesses accessing the Catayst4Growth programme to improve their Internet communications are based in the South Hams.

The Catalyst4Growth programme, run by Broadband4Devon focuses on helping businesses in Devon to prioritise and implement information and communications technology ideas aimed at improving productivity and efficiency, reducing costs, and exploring new markets.

The EU subsidies up to a maximum of 40% of the cost of ICT products and services are available from Catalyst4Growth which is based at Langage in the South Hams.

The programmed is supported by South Hams District Council which has been promoting the use of broadband, high speed Internet technology to local businesses since 2002.

SHDC economic development officer Michael Cozens said: "Effective use of a good broadband network is vital to ensure that our businesses remain competitive, not only within the UK but internationally.

"There was a groundswell of local interest in high speed Internet access as we promoted the upgrading of local telephone exchanges to enable broadband across its network through BT's registration scheme.

"When Catalyst4Growth launched its programme of funding and support for businesses in Devon's Objective 2 area, South Hams businesses were perfectly placed to respond."

Despite nearly one third of the programmes clients being South Hams businesses, Gillian Pearce, marketing executive for Broadband4Devon says: "It's the quality rather than the quantity that is significant. Of the £1.3 million invested in businesses by the programme so far, approximately 50% of this spend is in the South Hams. South Hams are by a long way the most pro-active group in Devon, we never have any problems finding good case studies from South Hams businesses".

BT aims to complete its broadband exchange upgrade by the end of July 2005, enabling more many more local businesses to take advantage of the technology and the assistance offered by B4D.

South Hams District Council produces a regular email ICT update. To receive the update contact Andrew Marlton (Economic Development Assistant) at South Hams District Council on 01803 861469 or at: andy.marlton@southhams.gov.uk