Arts Council England (ACE) has extended a loan programme for cultural and creative firms into a second region, following a successful pilot launched across London earlier this year.

Yorkshire and Humber businesses will now be able to apply for funding of between £5,000 and £25,000 - plus support and advice - as part of the Creative Industry Finance initiative.

It is thought the programme will mostly benefit businesses who have been unsuccessful in securing funding from other sources and for small- to medium-sized firms looking to grow.

Applicants will have to be based in the Yorkshire and Humber region, or one of 33 London boroughs, in order to benefit. Applicants must have been trading for at least six months.

ACE regional director Cluny Macpherson said: "Arts and cultural organisations are at the heart of the creative industries, providing a powerhouse of research and development to a sector that is invaluable to regional economies and national economic growth."

"The Creative Industry Finance programme demonstrates the Arts Council's commitment to supporting these important small and medium sized businesses to develop and grow in a difficult climate."

Click here for more information about the extension of ACE's Creative Industry Finance initiative to Yorkshire and Humber.