[June 06, 2013] Investment in superfast broadband technology [Herald Express (UK)] Tweet (Herald Express (UK) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) MORE than 500 rural businesses across Devon and Somerset are set to benefit from a Pounds 3.3 million investment from the European Regional Development Fund and Devon and Somerset County Councils to help them make the most out of superfast broadband technology. The new Superfast Business service, in association with Connecting Devon and Somerset, offers fully funded support to help businesses identify opportunities that superfast broadband can provide. With a focus on working with businesses in rural areas, the programme is aimed at businesses which already have superfast broadband or good connection speeds. By helping businesses grow and increase their productivity, Superfast Business hopes to create 190 jobs in Devon and Somerset in the next three years and boost the rural economy by almost Pounds 15 million. At the heart of the service its new website with an online knowledge hub that will act as a platform for the latest thinking from industry experts, businesses and suppliers. Eligible businesses will also be assigned a dedicated adviser who will work hand-in- hand with them to explore the opportunities superfast broadband can offer. Ian Exworthy, Superfast Business programme manager, said: Superfast broadband is about much more than speeding up your email or web browsing. It can transform the way that you do business. Devon County Council leader John Hart said: The county council is committed to boosting Devon's economy by supporting our local businesses and helping create the climate in which they can grow. Connecting Devon and Somerset will bring faster broadband to 90 per cent of homes and businesses across rural Devon and it's one of the most important projects we are supporting. (c) 2013 ProQuest Information and Learning Company; All Rights Reserved. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]