Business owners in Leicestershire have just a few days to submit their interest in the Business Gateway’s growth grant. This grant is open to Leicestershire businesses trading b2b, looking to introduce new products or processes and innovate. So far the funding has helped 78 businesses totalling around £1.5m across a variety of sectors.
The deadline – which is Wednesday 30 November at 5 pm, comes as the current support programme will end next year and funds must be allocated with enough time for projects to be completed and grants claimed. Potential applicants will need to work with a Business Gateway adviser to complete an Expression of Interest (EOI) form before it goes to Leicester City Council, which manages the grant. The important thing to note is that once that deadline has passed even completed EOIs won’t be accepted so it’s imperative for eligible businesses to take action now if they haven’t already.
The Business Gateway Growth Hub is a free business support service, part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund. It is run in partnership with Leicester City Council, Leicestershire County Council, East Midlands Chamber and the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP).
Grants from £2,000 to £25,000 for capital projects and grants up to £7,500 for revenue projects are available with a 35% contribution. Small to medium-sized enterprises in Leicester city and Leicestershire county can apply, provided they have been trading for at least 12 months, operating business to business and are looking to grow.
A variety of companies have benefitted from the grant so far including a logistics business, an America Football equipment supplier, a reconditioned tyre maker and a knitted jersey manufacturer.
Komodo Fireworks was awarded a £6,000 grant towards the development of its innovative i-MOVE unit. These units allow owner, Rob Sosbe and his team to run unique displays where fireworks synchronise with music.
Rob said: “I think it’s great we’ve had some recognition of the work that we’re doing through this grant approval. Recognition from our peers in the business community for an innovative project they can support. It’s a pat on the back from our perspective and it encourages us to start to look at other opportunities for growth.”
More details of the grant can be seen on this page. Business owners should contact their Business Gateway Adviser to discuss their project. Alternatively, they can complete an initial enquiry form, call 0116 366 8487 or email growthhub@bizgateway.org.uk
Image by Sarah Salotti.
