Three Cumbrian firms have scooped grants totalling almost £70,000, earmarked to drive their bright futures.

The £67,092, awarded by Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership (CLEP), is expected to unlock a further £153,165 of investment in decarbonisation and investment by the businesses.

The latest beneficiaries of the CLEP's 'Innovating for Success' grant include Kombineer Ltd, Brathay Trust, and We Are Digital.

Since the programme was rolled out during September 2022, thirty other deserving recipients have partaken in the £1 million grant pot sharing.

In the North Lakes, near Bassenthwaite, Kombineer Ltd plans to wield their £23,670 grant to advance JointEffort.io, a software platform designed for finding out the capabilities of specialist engineering and technology organisations.

Kombineer's co-founders, Mr Rob Hankin and Mr David Brookes, said: "We are delighted that CLEP has chosen to back the ambitious vision we have for JointEffort.io.

"The grant comes at a great time for us as a Cumbrian technology start-up.

"We are now working with organisations across the region and beyond and, over the next few months, will be moving out of development and into our launch phase.

"We will increase our use of AI along with features to support engaging with international markets. Helping organisations to discover new opportunities, connect and innovate - across communities, industries and places.”

In the South Lakes, Brathay Trust will utilise their grant money of £18,422 to revamp the single-glazed windows at its outdoor centre, Brathay Hall.

This will help towards the total costs of £55,835 for the work to the Georgian manor house.

Brathay delivers community programmes and outdoor residentials for children and young people in need across Cumbria.

CEO, Ms Teresa Jennings, said: "The CLEP grant not only helps to future-proof an historic building, vital to Brathay’s existence, but also supports the charity’s commitment to save energy and improve sustainability."

We Are Digital, based in Kendal, is using their innovation grant of £25,000 towards a £50,000 project.

Their aim is to devise affordable digital marketing packages specially curated for businesses in the hospitality and retail sectors.

According to founder Gareth O'Rourke, the aim is to give SMEs the tools, knowledge and support to thrive.

The project has also created two extra jobs at the business.

Chief Executive of the Cumbria LEP, Jo Lappin said: "It is great to be supporting three more businesses through our Innovating for Success programme.

"I am delighted that the grant encouraged further investment by the three businesses to deliver on their respective priorities."

According to an Independent economic assessment for the LEP, over a span of ten years, the Innovating for Success initiative is expected to yield additional economic growth of £37 million, create ninety-seven full time equivalent jobs and save over 4,160 tonnes of CO2.