Looking for help with investment? You could find it is available from a £53.5million commitment from the European Investment Fund (EIF) to the UK\'s nine Regional Venture Capital Funds that will be launched during 2002.

Small companies often miss out on funding available from Europe because they do not believe it can apply to them. British civil servants do not always help companies access European money, either.

Nevertheless, the Government is trying to make life easier for small businesses through its Small Business Service (SBS), which is acting as agent for the EIF investment money. The venture capital will be available in sums of up to £500,000 a time through the Regional Venture Capital Funds.

David Irwin, head of the SBS, said when the funding was announced: "This is a major boost for small firms across England looking to grow and prosper."

If you are thinking of investing in your business this year and believe such funding could assist, you can find out more about the Regional Venture Capital Funds by calling the number below.