NEARLY three-quarters of local businesses are unaware of assistance offered by Medway Council, according to a survey.

A special report on how to develop better links with businesses was being looked at by the

Regeneration and Community Overview and Scrutiny committee, which discussed how to improve the competitiveness of Medway's businesses.

The paper was prepared by the council's economic development and business support team, which has started a number of services to help develop Medway's business potential.

This includes a Partners for Growth scheme, which gives selected businesses a grant or an interest free loan from the council of up to £25,000. During the last 12 months a total of £459,000 has been spent on seven Medway businesses to give them the help they need to grow.

The council will hold a Better Business Exhibition and Meet the Buyers event at Buckmore Park in May. This is designed to help give businesses the opportunity to meet new customers and to increase networking opportunities.