A training scheme aimed at people with good ideas but little knowledge of the business world is to be extended for a second year.

Following the success of the New Entrepreneur Scholarship (NES) pilot scheme last year, it is to be relaunched in Hastings and Brighton and Hove.

The Government will fund the second programme, which starts next month.

The New Entrepreneur Scholarships, which originated in the US and were developed for British conditions, will offer support and training to people with business ideas and potential who can bridge the entrepreneurial gap.

The scholarships will again be delivered in Sussex by enterprise agency EDEAL in partnership with the Princes Trust, the Sussex Learning and Skills Council and the Canterbury Business School.

Jim Ridgway, the newly-appointed deputy chief executive with EDEAL, said: "It's imperative for the local economy that we find, and help, these budding businessmen and women.

"They are our future and it's our job to support them in every way we can."

People who fulfil the following criteria can apply for an NES place: They must be over the age of 18; live in a designated area; not be in full-time education (whether in a job or not) and must have a realistic business idea and the energy to make it happen.

The selected scholars will get a range of support, including start-up business skills workshops, business school master classes, assistance with start-up costs, mentoring and training and continuing post start-up support.

The project intends to involve other agencies, such as the Employment Service, to help find suitable applicants.

Mr Ridgway said: "We're mailing every address in the designated areas with details of the scheme but we know one or two Richard Bransons could slip the net.

"By involving other agencies we are hoping to spread the word even further."

The launch event was attended by members of the Careers Services, Brighton and Hove Youth Service, the city council and the Enterprise Agency.

Council leader Ken Bodfish said: "Six months of intensive expert training and advice, followed by continuing mentoring and support, sounds like any business's dream.

"Add vitality and determination and it sounds like a recipe for success."