Grants open
A series of support grants for local businesses hit by the effects of the pandemic have now been opened by Erewash Borough Council – with qualifying businesses urged to apply as soon as possible.
The government-funded support is offered through five schemes, to reach as many eligible Erewash businesses as possible, with application deadlines this month so payments can be sent out by the end of March.
The schemes launched this week are:
• The Omicron Additional Restrictions Grant (OARG) for businesses that continue to be affected by covid but that do not qualify for the Omicron Hospitality and Leisure Grant that was announced last month.
• Manufacturing Grant to support businesses in the manufacturing sector that have suffered adversely owing to the effects of Covid-19. Grants of up to £15,000 will be available to fund projects that could safeguard and create new jobs.
• Covid era Start-up Grants offering small awards of up to £5,000 for businesses that started trading during the pandemic but have struggled to establish themselves due to its impact.
The deadline for applications for these schemes is Monday 28 February.
A further two support schemes are also being managed by the council:
• The Covid-19 Additional Relief Fund (CARF), a rate relief scheme for local businesses outside of the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors that have not so far received government funding to help with the impact of covid. Applications for this scheme close on 18 February.
• The Omicron Hospitality and Leisure Grant. Eligible business can apply for one-off grants, with payments dependent on the rateable value of premises. Applications for this scheme close on Monday 21 February.
Full details of all schemes and the qualifying criteria can be found at www.erewash.gov.uk/businesssupport
Businesses can apply online and are also encouraged to register for a My Erewash account via the website.
Councillor Wayne Major, Erewash Borough Council’s Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Resources, says:
“It is vital that eligible businesses apply as soon as possible so we can get this help out by the end of March deadline. Reaching those businesses suffering the impact of this pandemic but that have not qualified for previous government support is our absolute priority.”
Council officers have worked closely with Erewash Partnership to develop the new schemes offering grants to the manufacturing sector and start-up businesses and the Partnership will continue to be involved to offer support for successful applicants.
