£20 million in grants announced to aid small business recovery
The Government has announced new grants of between £1000 and £5000 to help businesses access specialist professional advice and to purchase equipment to continue to deliver business activity or diversify. The funding is from the European Regional Development Fund and will be administered through each area’s Growth Hubs. Previously, it has not been possible to use ERDF funding for agricultural production because of state aid rules. We are seeking clarification whether this is the case but, if so, it may still be possible to apply for non-farming enterprises. Click HERE for more details on the announcement.
Updated online business support
The Government has updated its Business Support Finder allowing employers and the self-employed to determine their eligibility for loans, tax relief and cash grants.
Dairy Response Fund deadline 14th August
We have only come across one farmer that has qualified for the Dairy Response Fund but, if your base milk price dropped by 25% between February and April you may be eligible. The deadline is 14th August.
Extension of self-isolation period
The Government has announced that anyone displaying symptoms of Coronavirus (high temperature, a new continuous cough or loss of/change to sense of smell or taste) should self-isolate for 10 days, not seven as previously recommended. They should also arrange a test to allow contact tracing.