Bassetlaw Council urges small businesses to apply for grant as deadline looms

Under the scheme firms which have not qualified for any other form of Government financial help can apply for grants of up to £25,000 - with each application individually assessed after the closing date.

Businesses which typically would be eligible for the local authority discretionary grants fund are those which employ fewer than 50 staff and have relatively high ongoing fixed commercial property-related costs.

The fund - distributed by Bassetlaw District Council - is for traders unable to claim grants such as business rates relief.

They include small businesses in shared offices or units in industrial parks or other flexible workspaces - for example nail bars in beauty salons.

Other examples consist of regular market traders, bed and breakfasts paying council tax instead of business rates or charity properties getting charitable business rates relief.

Councillor Jo White, Cabinet Member for Regeneration said: “We have received a high number of applications but we’re urging businesses who have not yet applied to check the guidance to see if they are eligible.

“There are many small businesses in Bassetlaw who may have fallen through the cracks of other funding schemes and need this vital funding in order to keep their businesses afloat and provide for their families.”

Those who have applied for the coronavirus job retention scheme or the self-employment income support schemes are able to apply.

However due to limited funding available the council may prioritise those who unsuccessfully applied for any other funding support.

Businesses which have already received grants from existing coronavirus help schemes including the following are ineligible for funding from the discretionary grants fund:

Small Business Grant Fund Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant The Fisheries Response Fund Domestic Seafood Supply Scheme (DSSS). The Zoos Support Fund The Dairy Hardship Fund

More detailed information about whether your are eligible for the grant and the application form can be found HERE.

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