A Black Country manufacturer has secured a £250,000 loan to scale up its operations and create more than a dozen new jobs.
Solutions by Jigsaw will use the finance from The Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF) to help it introduce new products to UK and European markets - and create 20 new jobs over the next three years.
The Halesowen company manufactures, designs and installs infrared heating systems to replace traditional gas boiler central heating in homes and businesses.
The firm claims its wall or ceiling-mounted units are twice as efficient as other heating solutions and designed to support both a reduction in heating bills and carbon emissions.
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Solutions by Jigsaw is also partnering with market leading European manufacturers to explore opportunities to enter new sectors with a focus on equestrian heating solutions.
CEO Glenn Billingham said: "By 2025, the UK Government plans to stop the use and installation of gas boiler systems in new build properties. We are proud that we are working to achieve this and that our products support other key UK and global initiatives which include moving towards either low or net carbon emissions whilst also addressing medium term issues which are linked to energy poverty.
"The funding will enable us to carry out our expansion plans by creating 20 new jobs, delivering existing products whilst adding to our range helping homes, businesses and future customers to work towards and achieve cleaner, greener technology."
Andy Long, investment manager at The FSE Group, which manages the MEIF Debt Finance Fund, said: "The energy sector is most definitely a market which is diversifying, growing and looking at new ways to achieve reductions in carbon emissions, which is pivotal in achieving a sustainable future.
"Glenn has an incredibly committed, strong and agile management team, with a sound knowledge of the industry and they are well placed to support the business taking it forward to the next level. We were pleased to be able to support the business with the funding required to help them achieve these growth plans."
Tom Westley, chair of the Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership (BCLEP) Board, added: "The last two years have been challenging for business so it's great to be able to support Black Country companies like Solutions by Jigsaw to upscale their business and in the process support job creation.
"The Black Country LEPs role is to support business in recovering and expanding so we continue to see our local and regional economy grow and we are particularly pleased to be supporting a business that is helping to deliver our shared low carbon ambitions through cost-effective energy solutions."
