DOUGLAS, Isle of Man -- The Isle of Man government, located in the British Isles and internationally recognized for its pro-business environment, is providing technology grants to companies, including computer gaming and interactive entertainment firms. The grants provide financial assistance to help companies adopt new technologies and grow their business on the Island.

The Isle of Man has become the home to a flourishing interactive entertainment and film industry through its pro-business and responsive government policies. Many companies are establishing operations in the Isle of Man to access the UK and European Union markets. To support this process, the Isle of Man government provides financial and other support to help off-set the cost of moving, setting up operations, and acquiring new office equipment.

The government's financial assistance initiative offers a generous grant package of up to 40% to qualifying businesses including the following:

--Office Facility - construction costs of a new building or for rents payable

--Building Improvements - refurbishment or conversion costs of a building.

--Equipment Needs - all hardware, software and maintenance contracts.

--Other costs - including research and development, relocation, consultancy, marketing and quality and environmental standards

--Training - up to 50% of training costs incurred by employers operating an approved training program.

In addition to progressive government policy, more than $90 million has been invested in the Island's telecommunications infrastructure over the past five years. The Isle of Man is leading Europe with innovative technology investments which include implementation of Europe's first Super Fast (HSDPA) 3G network, two self healing (SDH) rings connecting the Isle of Man to both the UK and Ireland, 100 percent broadband coverage and free ADSL and ISDN connections available for businesses and individuals.

"The Isle of Man government is dedicated to implementing innovative programs and strategic government investments to ensure the success of corporations and individuals," said Tim Craine, the Isle of Man Government's E-business director. "Because of our state-of-the art telecommunications and networking infrastructure, The Isle of Man is one of the most advanced and progressive European locations available to companies."

About the Isle of Man

Located off the coast of the United Kingdom and situated in the center of the British Isles, the Isle of Man is recognized worldwide for its pro-business environment. The Isle of Man government supports companies with a team of experts who advise on international tax, legal and banking issues. The government's political stability and vibrant business economy, as demonstrated with AAA ratings from Standard & Poor's and Moody's, make it a perfect location for North American companies looking to establish a European headquarters. The Island's colorful heritage, diverse scenic beauty, enhanced by many annual cultural events, hotel, conference and leisure facilities provides the basis for its flourishing technology, tourist and film industries. With excellent educational, health and social amenities, the Isle of Man provides a unique quality of life, which is appreciated and treasured by all its residents both old and new. For additional information on the Isle of Man visit http://www.isleofman.com and to learn more about its e-business division, visit http://www.ebusiness.gov.im.

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