BUSINESSES in Hampshire can apply for a Government grant towards the cost of upgrading their broadband connections.

Small and medium sized businesses in the county are able to apply for up to £3,000 thanks to Hampshire County Council accreditation.

The council has joined forces with neighbouring authorities to access the Bournemouth City Scheme to make sure that all Hampshire businesses have the opportunity to share in the £40million available through Broadband Connection Vouchers.

Councillor Roy Perry, leader of the county council, said: "This is great news for Hampshire businesses. Whether they are start-ups in town, or farms in the countryside, I would urge them to apply as soon as possible, as the scheme is funded on a first-come, first-served basis. Our own programme will see at least 95 per cent of premises across Hampshire provided with access to superfast broadband speeds by September 2018 - a vital tool for economic success, and any additional opportunities which will help Hampshire businesses are very much welcomed."

Each local scheme is designed to meet the needs of the local area to help businesses grow and develop.

Businesses will need to contact an approved supplier to get a quote for a solution.

They can check their eligibility by entering their postcode on the Connected Cities Voucher scheme website connectionvouchers.co.uk.

The Hampshire scheme is being administered by Dorset County Council and is part of the greater Bournemouth City scheme, bringing benefits to businesses across the region.