Following the success of the first two rounds of Sedgemoor District Council’s grant scheme for small and medium sized businesses, which has seen more than 25 local companies so far given a financial boost, applications are invited for a third round.
Under the scheme, Sedgemoor is offering grants of up to £5,000 each to businesses for activities, equipment or systems that they can demonstrate will allow them to grow and prosper, and so benefit the whole District.
In the last round of the scheme, the Council agreed to help several businesses inclusing an award-winning safety advice service, a general engineering company, a firm of electronics engineers, a bakery, a café business, PR company, graphic designer and soft furnishing store.
While the Council has been able to assist the visions of 25 companies, it has had to disappoint a number of others and is keen to emphasise that there are strict criteria that it must apply.
Criteria for the funding include the ability to demonstrate that the money will add value to the District’s economy and match its economic aspirations. It cannot be used to supplement loss of income or to pay salaries.
Cllr Anne Fraser, portfolio holder for Inward Investment and Growth, said: “We are delighted to be able to help these enterprising businesses realise their potential and in many cases take vital steps to the next level.”
“We look forward to watching their continued development and contribution to the Sedgemoor business community. From enquiries we have received we know there are still more out there eager to receive the help we are able to give.”
The final round of grants for 2018 closes on Friday July 27th. It is a competitive process and requires the completion of an application and production of a full year’s accounts. The final decision is taken by the Council’s Grants Award Sub-Committee. For more information and to apply click here.
