Business grants to give more start-ups a helping hand

The first round of grants to help promote new small business start-ups, self-employment and entrepreneurship in Tamworth are now open for applications.

The Tamworth Borough Council Start-up Business Grant Scheme has opened for its fourth year, offering help to individuals wanting to set up new businesses in the area.

The scheme is now encouraging entrepreneurs and new small businesses to apply for the New Year 's first round of grants of between £500 and £1,000 before the application closing on 26 February.

The first round of grants are aimed to assist new small business start-ups or existing businesses who have been trading less than three years, to diversify or grow and can assist with costs such as insurance, professional qualifications, equipment (except laptops/computers) and marketing.

To receive these small business grants, individuals are required to meet some basic criteria. This includes signing up and completing the Enterprise for Success programme, which provides 12 hours of online advice and support covering all of the important aspects of setting up and running a successful business.

Cllr Jeremy Oates, Cabinet member for Heritage and Growth, said: “Supporting small and local business is a key priority for the council and the public of Tamworth, especially during the pandemic and these uncertain times.

“This successful scheme continues to support individuals wishing to start up in new businesses or who have been trading for less than three years.

“Small businesses are the foundation of any thriving economy and using the new Tamworth Enterprise Centre as a 'hub ' of support and advice can only will help grow and repair the local economy. ”