Businesses in Brighton and Hove have signed up to a programme giving them a voice in the city's future.

Leading members of 14 associations, representing a range of small business sectors, put their signatures to the equal opportunities policy.

It is the first in a series of initiatives created by the second phase of Business in Regeneration (BiR), a project focused on engaging the small business community in regeneration issues.

Funding for the scheme comes from the South-East England Development Agency (Seeda) with matching funds from private sponsors, including Nat West Bank, the Royal Bank of Scotland and the Brighton City Centre Business Forum.

The project, which is being run by the forum, helps business associations to represent their members more effectively.

It will provide skills and resources to raise their professionalism and offer guidance on lobbying and fund-raising.

Peter Field, chairman of The Brighton and Hove Regeneration Partnership, was a key mover in getting financial backing for the initiative.

He has been involved in community support and regeneration in the city for more than 25 years and also chairs the Business Community Partnership.

Project director Tony Mernagh said: "These organisations are sending out an important message to the small business community.

"These associations will not only set an excellent example but also improve their ability to help their members with issues relating to equal and fair business practice.

"Small business make up the vast majority of the trade and commerce in the city but individually don't have a strong voice. Joining together gives them a chance to contribute to the planning of our city and learn from the strengths of others."

Associations backing the policy include: The Association of New Media Freelancers; Brighton and Hove Branch of the Federation of Small Businesses; Brighton and Hove Chamber of Commerce; Brighton Illustrators' Group; Brighton and Hove Hotels' Association; Hove Business Association; Kemp Town Village Business Association; North Laine Traders' Association; Rottingdean Trade, Business and Professional Association; St James's Action Group; Sussex Women's Alternative Network and The Lanes Traders' Association.

Freelance consultant Soozie Campbell will manage the project.