New business support schemes and grant funding launched across Somerset – don’t miss your chance to apply

Businesses across Somerset are now able to access fully funded business support made available through the ‘Unlocking Somerset Prosperity’ programme.

Funding has been awarded through the UK Government’s Community Renewal Fund and the programme and activities will drive forward business recovery and growth in Somerset.

South Somerset District Council are working in partnership with Somerset County Council, Mendip District Council, Sedgemoor District Council and Somerset West and Taunton Council to support this scheme.

The application window for these grants is limited, so we encourage all business who believe they are eligible to apply as soon as possible.

More information, including how to apply, can be found at:www.somerset.gov.uk/business-and-economy/community-renewal-fund-2021-2022/

The Unlocking Somerset Prosperity scheme offerssupport programmes to benefit businesses across Somerset. An overview is available below:

1. Pre-start, Re-start and Start Up Support Package – available soon

Support is available to individuals that are thinking of starting a business, or have recently started a business, in Somerset and need guidance on the next steps. This programme will provide a combination offlexible digital, direct learning and 1-2-1 advice to help your business to grow.

2. Local Network and Cluster Support – applications now open

Business groups (including Social Enterprises), networks and clusters working in Somerset or those looking to set up new groups can apply for grant funding. The grants are to aid recovery from Covid-19 and support the strengthening or creation of business groups, networks and clusters. The scheme is targeted in particular at those most affected by the economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, for example, younger people and the over-50s. More information and the online application form is availablehere.

3. Business Growth Support Programme – applications now open

Businesses are invited to apply for grants to access specialist and expert business support services that boost the pace and scale of development, transformation, innovation, decarbonisation, and employment growth.

The Business Growth Support Programme aims to provide support for up to 30 businesses with a focus on priority sectors including Clean Growth, Aerospace, Digital and Agri-Tech and their supply chains. Grants will be awarded to businesses to allow them to access specialist and expert business support service providers to meet their own specific needs and have a transformative impact on the business. Further information, including eligibility details and the online application form, can be foundhere.

4. High-Growth Business Catalyst Support – applications now open

This support is available to ten business with high growth potential. The scheme builds on the previous Somerset Catalyst programme and provides bespoke support linked to individual ‘step change’ business issues. The programme will blend 1-2-1 coaching, digital workshops, peer group guidance, business review panels and access to market-leading industry experts. Visit the Somerset Catalyst website to find out more and complete the online application form:https://somersetcatalyst.co.uk/

ENDS

Notes for Editor

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Issued by:

South Somerset District Council Communications Team

Email:communications@southsomerset.gov.uk