Adur And Worthing Bring Business Grants To Covid-Hit Traders

Tuesday, 1 September 2020 18:50

By John Warburton @Warblefly

Worthing Town Hall (Photo: © John Warburton)

A cash boost could be available to many businesses in Adur and Worthing looking to "bounce back" by creating jobs as the coronavirus lockdown fragments.

The councils said funding of more than £140,000 has been made available through the Small Business Growth Grant.

Businesses with up to 50 employees can also apply to the Councils for £1,000 towards the creation of new apprenticeships in their organisations.

The local authority said it's a move which is expected to create dozens of local jobs.

Applications for both funds opened today (September 1) with independent panelists allocating grants on a first come, first served basis.

Cllr Brian Boggis, who's responsible for regeneration on Adur District Council, said:

"We know these have been tough times for local businesses which is why we are determined to use our resources to support them, create local jobs and secure opportunities for young people."

Cllr Kevin Jenkins, who has the same role on Worthing Borough Council, added:

"I'm delighted we've been able to make funding available to help micro-entrepreneurs get off the ground while supporting the creation of dozens of new quality roles. Interest in this funding is guaranteed to be high so I encourage businesses to get their applications in as soon as possible."

The funding has been made available as part of "And Then..., the Councils" so-called "short, sharp programme" of interventions and assistance to help the communities of Adur and Worthing bounce back from the impact of lockdown.

The Small Business Growth Grant is available to firms of up to 10 employees. Grants of up to £2,500 are available with a 50% match funding contribution required.
The Apprenticeship Grant provides a one off payment of £1,000 towards the cost of taking on an apprentice. Individual businesses can apply for up to two grants.

Both are delivered in conjunction with the Adur & Worthing Business Partnership and aim to support spend with local suppliers and retailers rather than national chains.

All applications are considered by an independent panel made up of representatives of the local business community which meets every month.

For further details, visit: www.adur-worthing.gov.uk/business-grants/