We're appealing for businesses to check the regional grants system for funding that could help businesses through the COVID-19 pandemic.
John King, our North East Business Support Manager, is advising businesses to look at projects that the North East Business Support Fund could support during these unprecedented times.
With over £300,000 of grant funding for projects still available to businesses in County Durham and more than £90,000 still available across Tyne & Wear and Northumberland, businesses are being urged to check if any projects that they are planning to complete during this difficult time could be eligible.
John said, “We’ve made the application process simple, easy to understand and quick – taking around 15 minutes to complete online. Our team of advisers can handle all our contracting process virtually – minimising the impact of COVID-19.
“Many businesses are bringing in service providers to update their websites to reflect the current – and difficult – situation. Consultants are helping to revise operational procedures or provide HR support. All of which could be eligible for a grant of up to 40% of the total project cost”
As an organisation that has been committed to supporting North East businesses for over 18 years, NBSL have a fully functional online application service – with a dedicated team to support any contract. Between 35% and 40% of funding is available towards projects costing between £2,500 and £8,000 (ERDF criteria applies) with the fund ending in December 2020.
The Fund can be used for any external resource including:
- Website improvements & Content Management Systems
- Development of online dialogue – online Sales services
- Marketing Strategy & branding
- Customer Service & Sales Strategy development
- New product diversification advice
- HR and Employment Advice
- Continuity and regulatory advice
With less than a year left of the current fund, SMEs across the region are urged to apply now which could provide a lifeline at this difficult time.
Find out more www.nbsl.org.uk/nebsf
