Tech startups from Leicestershire are among the recipients of government grant to boost UK creative industries and grow the economy.

Gumbo, Rubitek Solutions, The Athlete Place and ApnaKey will each receive £10,000 and £30,000 as part of the Create Growth fund.

The Athlete Place, based at LUinc. on the Loughborough University Science and Enterprise Park, is an online platform providing guidance and support for parents of aspiring young athletes.

Founder Joe Fuggle said:

“We are thrilled to be among the first beneficiaries of Create Growth funding.

“By receiving support, we will be able to enhance the production value of our content and education through collaboration with experienced professionals in the creative industry.

“It’s a massive opportunity to explore previously out-of-reach projects and improve our investment readiness and is very exciting.”

Other local organisations to receive a grant are Lyndon Media, Th!nk FC and Cocoa Amore.

Later this year, as part of the wider Create Growth agenda, the East Midlands Creative Consortium (EMC²) is recruiting to a separate programme supporting businesses operating in the creative sector.

EMC² is among the first six regions to run the scheme, which will offer bespoke development packages which increase business skills and help businesses get better prepared to capitalise on future finance options as they become available.

It runs across Leicester and Leicestershire, Rutland, Lincoln and Greater Lincolnshire, Derby and Derbyshire, with the first cohort starting in September.