Small businesses across Dorset will now be able to apply for up to £5,000 of government funding as part of a £20 million fund to help businesses recover from the impact of the UK-wide lockdown.
The fund is supported by the England European Regional Development Fund, part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020. The £20 million has been divided across every area in England, with each Local Enterprise Partnership area receiving a minimum of £250,000 to distribute between eligible businesses in their region.
The grants, which will range between £1,000 and £5,000, will help small and medium businesses access specialist professional advice, including accountants, HR and legal advice, or cover the cost of buying minor equipment that will aid business continuity or help businesses diversify.
Minister for Regional Growth and Local Government, Simon Clarke MP said: “We have always said that we would stand behind our businesses and communities as we rebuild following the coronavirus pandemic. This new funding does exactly that.
Businesses will be able to use these new grants to pay for the expertise, equipment and technology they need to adapt, recover and rebuild.
Small and medium sized businesses are the beating heart of communities; they provide employment and contribute significantly to local economies and we are determined to give them the support they need to continue to thrive.”
Visit the government website for more information on the grants and how they could help your business.