Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) provides small and medium-sized UK manufacturing firms with direct access to straightforward advice and practical, hands-on support from manufacturing experts - support that will help them achieve big improvements in their productivity and competitiveness. Services vary from a free helpline and manufacturing review to training and networking events and subsidised consultancy support. Some services require match funding but initial advice, information and diagnostic assessments are provided free of charge. In-depth assignment/consultancy work subject to a fee structure

The Manufacturing Advisory Service in the South West (MAS-SW) is one of the Government's Solutions for Business, funded by the South West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA) through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). MAS-SW works closely with manufacturers to help improve productivity, reduce carbon emissions, improve competitiveness and support product innovation with a range of services and programmes. Much of the available support is either free or subsidised. Companies can benefit from regional events and access to a manufacturing helpline.

The Marine and Fisheries Agency has a wide range of responsibilities and undertakes delivery functions for Defra in a number of areas. Objectives: Fisheries Management - To be a key partner in the management of marine fisheries. Enforcement - To enforce regulations professionally, consistently and fairly. Marine Environment - To contribute to the sustainable use of the marine environment. Information and Advice - To provide specialist information to inform the development of policy and its effective implementation. Our Organisation - To promote an open, diverse and fair culture in which staff are encouraged to reach their full potential. They also offer grant support and actual funding, including the European Fisheries Fund and the Fisheries Challenge Fund. See http://www.mfa.gov.uk/grants/grants-fcf.htm for more details