21 Jan 2022

New scheme to help small firms adopt digital technologies

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The Government has launched its Help to Grow: Digital scheme to support smaller businesses in adopting digital technologies to boost their growth.

Eligible businesses can apply to receive discounts of up to £5,000 off the retail price of approved Digital Accounting and CRM software from leading technology suppliers to help them effectively manage their finances and build customer relationships.

To qualify for the £5,000 discount, businesses must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • Be a business based in the United Kingdom registered with Companies House or be a registered society on the Financial Conduct Authorities Mutuals Register
  • Employ between five and 249 people
  • Have been actively trading for over 12 months, and have an incorporation date of at least 365 days prior to application
  • Be purchasing the approved software for the first time

Businesses will also be able to access practical, specialised support and advice on how to choose the right digital technologies to boost their growth and productivity through the Government 's new online platform.

In the future, the Government hopes to bring on further products to help small and medium-sized businesses to grow, including new software to help businesses maximise their sales online.

Erin Henwood, policy advisor at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “The Government 's 'Help to Grow: Digital ' scheme will play an exciting role in helping small and medium-sized businesses to adapt to an increasingly digital world, grow their business, and learn new skills to foster productivity.

“It 's important that smaller businesses feel confident and supported as they look to implement new technologies and create a real difference for themselves, thus enabling them to create jobs and boost the West Midlands ' economy.

“I would strongly encourage businesses across Greater Birmingham who would qualify for the discount to apply as quickly as possible to help them 'level up ' on their digital transformation journey. ”

Andrew Penlington (pictured), regional director West Midlands, Air IT, said: “As a business whose mission it is to empower people to succeed through technology, the new Help to Grow: Digital Scheme is warmly welcomed.

“When used effectively, technology enhances business performance, resilience and profitability, and those that had invested in cloud computing pre-pandemic were much better prepared for the switch to remote working.

“We would strongly encourage small-to-medium businesses across Birmingham and beyond to make the most of this opportunity to modernise their operations. ”

Visit the Help to Grow: Digital website for more information.