SMALL Business Minister Nigel Griffiths has agreed £14.5m in grants for 46 new projects aiming to support budding entrepreneurs in deprived areas.

The Phoenix Fund, run by the Small Business Service (SBS), supports organisations in England helping people in disadvantaged communities.

Successful winners in the North-East include Houghall Enterprises in Durham, which aims to encourage rural businesses, and Comecon, designed to tackle employment deprivation levels on Tyneside.

Announcing the winners, Mr Griffiths said: "If economic growth is to be maintained it is critical there is an increase in the number of people starting their own business.

"We are encouraging people who face more hurdles when launching their ideas, such as older people and those from inner city areas and disadvantaged groups."

David Irwin, chief executive of the SBS, said: "The SBS is determined that entrepreneurs in disadvantaged areas will not suffer from lack of support, advice and access to finance.

"The Phoenix Fund will encourage enterprising people to revitalise their communities."