BUSINESSES in Worcestershire are being urged to apply to a scheme that has a track record for developing dynamic new companies.

The Mustard TeamStart programme is being rolled out and organisers are hoping to attract more businesses in rural parts of the West Midlands, such as Worcestershire, in the latest phase of the Government-backed support initiative.

The scheme offers high-growth companies a mix of interactive workshops and private sector consultancy advice, and addresses key issues such as financial regulations, business planning and human resources.

It is part of the Mustard business support initiative, which was established in 2000 to aid job and wealth creation in the West Midlands and has so far helped 1,500 companies.

TeamStart aims to translate ideas into viable companies and has helped about 500 companies in high-growth sectors.

One of these companies was Rowan, a sales productivity consultancy based in Malvern, which offers an out-sourced sales service. This gives businesses a simple and flexible way to service existing customers, enter new markets, and maintain a professional sales force, while reducing costs and management overheads.

The company was a direct result of the Mustard TeamStart programme.

"I met my business partners during the TeamStart programme," said Chris Salt, managing director.

"It gave me the platform to talk to like-minded individuals with complimentary skills and a commitment to dynamic success."

Delivered jointly by the University of Warwick Science Park and PricewaterhouseCoopers, TeamStart 2004 is looking to build on last autumn's success, when 23 new ventures in the West Midlands embarked on the programme.

The spring 2004 phase of the programme is looking for 25 new ventures to help turn them into commercial reality.

"There are a lot of experienced people who are capable of running their own high-growth business but they need some practical help and sound advice from start-up professionals to turn their aspirations into reality," said Harry Stott, project director at UWSP.

"TeamStart provides an interactive environment in which to cultivate ideas and gain access to a broad spectrum of hands-on support, mentoring and advice, all delivered by regional Business Link advisers and, for the second year running, PricewaterhouseCoopers.

The deadline for registering interest in the TeamStart programme - which is funded by regional development agency, Advantage West Midlands - is this Friday, March 5.

Phone Mustard TeamStart on 0800 5870721.