North Yorks businesses set off on overseas trade missions to unlock new markets

30 businesses will aim to open up their goods to markets in North America, Europe and Asia

Author: Alex HulsePublished 30th Mar 2026

Businesses across York and North Yorkshire could bring in millions in sales as an overseas trade mission begins.

The second round of projects announced today will aim to unlock new markets across North America, Europe and Asia for another 30 local businesses.

This builds on the first round which supported a further 40 businesses with grants between £3,000 up to £10,000 to help with the costs of establishing their business in new countries. It means that the full grant pot has been allocated.

David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said: “We've seen what our incredible local businesses can achieve when they have the right support

“By tripling our exports grant pot, we’re backing ambition and unlocking more in new global trade.

“I’m excited to see more of our businesses grasp these global opportunities and continue the momentum we’re building across the region.”

A previous pilot scheme provided £200,000 in grants which generated more than £15 million in sales. By tripling the investment to £635,000, the Combined Authority estimates the current programme could unlock over £45 million in new global trade.

Resimac Solutions, a manufacturer based in Thirsk, will use the grant to head out to Thailand to exhibit their products at one of their industries biggest events.

Andrew Donald, Global Business Development Manager at Resimac Limited, said: “We have seen significant growth in sales of our Spray in Place Pipe (SIPP) linings into the Water Sector in Europe and the Americas. This grant will enable us to participate in Trenchless Asia, the primary exhibition for trenchless technologies in the region, allowing us to expand our networks and identify new potential partners to drive export growth in a region where we currently have a limited presence.”

York-based Simpson Associates will also benefit from the grant. Emma McGhin, Chief Marketing Officer at Simpson Associates, said: "The Get Exporting grant programme presents a fantastic opportunity for Simpson Associates to start our export journey. Our data & AI solutions are easily transferable to industries in other markets, and the funding award has helped accelerate our entry into this area."

The Business Innovation Fund has come in five programmes focussing on ‘Sector Activity’, ‘Spin-Out and Start-Ups', ‘Get Exporting’, with ‘Great Ideas’ and ‘Get Funded’ launching over the coming months.

Last year, Mayor David Skaith launched three other Mayoral Challenge Funds including the £10 million Vibrant and Sustainable High Streets Fund, the £7 million Carbon Negative Challenge Fund and the £2.3 million Skills Innovation Fund.

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