The Department of Economic Development is very pleased to announce that Celton Manx Limited will sponsor the 2011 and 2012 STEP programmes. The scheme is designed for undergraduates to undertake a technical or business development project within a small or medium sized organisation whilst also gaining valuable experience in the workplace. Celton Manx Limited is based in Castletown, Isle of Man, and they are the world leaders in providing online Sports Betting and Casino products, including Live Dealer Casino games. They are also the principal sponsors of West Ham United and Cardiff City football clubs. The Company has agreed sponsorship of the STEP scheme for a two year period and will take part in a working group which looks to ensure the continued quality and effectiveness of the scheme on the Island. STEP is a UK and Isle of Man government-backed scheme where enterprising and enthusiastic undergraduates are given work experience relevant to the degree they are undertaking for an eight week long period and paid a salary of ?210 per week. Now in its ninth year, the programme has proved highly successful with more than 150 organisations having benefited from participating students. Minister for the Department of Economic Development, Allan Bell MHK, said: ‘I would like to express my gratitude to Celton Manx Limited for their valuable support in sponsoring the STEP scheme and for accommodating a student to carry out a project this summer. ‘This important programme enables participants to gain excellent experience and knowledge to assist in their future careers and we hope that, with the support of our sponsors, we can continue with the scheme for many years to come.’ A STEP final will be held at the International Business School on Friday 26th August 2011 where students will present the findings of their projects and explain the skills that they have developed to an invited audience which will include Government representatives and members of participating organisations. The most prestigious award, sponsored by Celton Manx Limited, will be presented during this event. Bill Mummery, Executive Director of Celton Manx Limited, said: ‘The STEP programme is an excellent example of how the ‘Public/Private Sector’ relationship benefits all stakeholders including the paritcipating student, potential employers and Government. Celton Manx are delighted to be given the opportunity to support this initiative and wish all of the participating students every success. I know from experience as an employer that both students and their host companies will benefit a great deal from the experience.’ Any local businesses interested in obtaining more information on the STEP programme should contact the Programme Support Officer at the Department of Economic Development on 682396 or email stepscheme@gov.im. Ends