The funding was from the European Development Fund as well as the East Midlands Development Agency.

Print Media and Graphics Network director Paddy Crabtree said that the money would help firms improve productivity, competitiveness and performance.

For the first time we have received funding from the Regional Development Agency, because of the help of Jackie Smith [minister for industry and the regions], said Crabtree.

Nottingham-based Focus Consultants put Print Media and Graphics Networks bid together. Well target printers and print-related companies that want to embrace innovation, said Crabtree.