ORGANISATIONS which can help Welsh companies to improve their environmental performance are being invited to bid for funding under the National Assembly's business and environment challenge scheme.

The Assembly's minister for economic development, Mich-ael German, said: "Increas-ingly Welsh businesses need to be aware of environmental issues such as the climate change levy.

"But they should also know that there are many no-cost and low-cost schemes available to help them reduce their costs and improve their environmental credentials.

"Much has already been achieved, but it is vital that we continue this momentum if we want to see Wales develop into a vibrant, competitive and sustainable economy."

The latest projects funded are: Arena Network, Treforest - £7,780 to research and inform the development of a business and environment strategy for Wales, through consultation with business, business service providers and local authorities;

Groundwork Wales, Tre-forest - £6,000 to provide companies with the expertise required to implement water efficiency measures, to assist companies finance, source, install and maintain the most water efficient measures;

Swansea Energy Agency, Swansea - £7,770 to produce a guide detailing suppliers and installers of energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies; Business Connect, Cardigan - £8,300 to assist SMEs in West Wales improve their environmental performance and make environmental savings;

Groundwork Wales, Tre-forest - £10,000 to hold a two-day conference for business service providers, where environmental practitioners will discuss areas relating to promoting environmental performance in SMEs.

Further details are available from Mark Price, Business and Environment Branch, National Assembly for Wales, Cathays Park, Cardiff CF10 3NQ - telephone 02920 823897.

The closing date for applications is May 31.