Date issued: 28 May 2020
Local businesses affected by Covid-19 can now apply for a new grant, which will be distributed by Colchester Borough Council, as part of the Government’s response to coronavirus.
Colchester’s Discretionary Business Grant scheme will distribute up to £1.7 million to local businesses. The scheme seeks to support businesses who are unable to access the Small Business Grant or the Retail Hospitality and Leisure Grant announced in March.
Grants will be worth up to £10,000 and will be available to businesses which meet the eligibility criteria, which is available at www.colchester.gov.uk/coronavirus/businesses
Businesses will need to apply for the grant by the Wednesday 10 June by completing an application form.
The funding for the grant is part of £42 million received from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government earlier this year to support local businesses in Colchester.
Cllr David King, Portfolio Holder for Business and Resources, said: “It is great news that the council has a new Discretionary Business Grant, to help even more businesses through the current health and economic crisis.
“COVID-19 business grants announced in March has been a welcome relief for more than 2,500 local businesses. We have swiftly distributed almost £30 million but the eligibility criteria meant that many businesses could not access any support.
"I know many good businesses have struggled through no fault of their own. Our funds are limited. We cannot help all. But we will spread the £1.7 million we have as widely as we can.
“This funding will be vital help for hundreds of businesses, and we encourage applications. If an application is unsuccessful there are ‘Bounce Back’ loans and other areas of support and advice. We encourage businesses to contact the Colchester Business Enterprise Agency (Colbea) for a fully-funded 1:1 business advice sessions.”
For more information on Colbea and to book a fully-funded appointment visit colbea.co.uk/business-advice-coronavirus/
Page last reviewed: 27 May 2020