AN audio-visual firm boss from Bolton has set out to promote diversity on a key trade mission to the United States.

Fifteen firms from across Greater Manchester and London have gone Stateside as part of the Race, Ethnicity and Cultural Heritage (REACH) expedition.

Supported by Greater Manchester's Growth Company and the capital's Mayor's International Business programme, the aim is to introduce black, Asian and mixed background tech entrepreneurs to like-minded outfits in the US.

And among the delegates were Krishan Mistry, of Farnworth-based AVM Solutions, a former start-up business of the year winner at the Bolton Business Awards.

Mr Mistry said ahead of the trip: "We are really excited to be a part of this new trade mission and very much looking forward to meeting North American corporations to build relationships and establish new trade opportunities for DigiSpace in the US.”

Earlier this year the Minerva Road outfit was already making strides, after sealing a deal with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service to upgrade their training and communications technology.

Their assistance has enabled firefighters to keep in touch safely amid the pandemic, allowing crews from multiple stations to hold video calls and other activities such as training sessions.

Krishan and his team impressed Greater Manchester Combined Authority representatives so much that they rolled out the technology to 41 county fire stations.

The Growth Company hopes the trade mission will be the first of several trans-Atlantic activities for REACH, after research by the Kinsey group found black and Asian business owners found it more difficult to establish and grow their businesses in the current economic climate.

Metro Mayor Andy Burnham, also speaking before the delegates started the mission,said: “I am very proud we are creating this opportunity for underrepresented entrepreneurs in Greater Manchester and showcasing the diverse talent and innovation that is at the heart of our city-region.

“Greater Manchester is the fastest-growing digital and tech hub in Europe, and through our work at Greater Manchester Combined Authority, The Growth Company and the Global Scale-Up programme, we are doing everything we can to support these sectors, tackle digital inequalities, and make sure that this growth benefits all of our places and communities.

“Together with the Mayor of London and our partners in the capital, we hope this virtual trade mission will strengthen the links between our city-regions, and offer a platform for black, Asian and mixed background tech entrepreneurs to promote their businesses and forge exciting new global connections.”