Discretionary Covid grants now available to Solihull firms

Solihull Council 's Discretionary Business Grant Scheme is now open for applications.

The council has received £348,268 of additional funding to support those experiencing significant difficulties as a direct result of the Omicron variant but are not eligible for the Omicron Hospitality and Leisure Grant.

Applications will be accepted from:

• Businesses in the supply chain to hospitality and leisure sectors
• Hospitality, accommodation, and leisure businesses not liable for business rates
• Events businesses not liable for business rates
• Businesses in the travel sector, including those liable for business rates and those who are not

Firms must be able to demonstrate a loss of trade or turnover of at least 25 per cent as a direct result of the Omicron variant.

Such losses could be due to staff absences and/or lower consumer demand.

Applicants will be required to explain the impact as part of their application, as well as confirm their annual business turnover and number of employees.

The scheme will close for applications at 5pm on Friday 28 January.

Erin Henwood (pictured), policy advisor at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “Given the extent to which businesses across all sectors are reporting being impacted by the Omicron variant, we are pleased to see Solihull Council working quickly to release nearly £350,000 for local businesses suffering from lost trade.

“It is vital that this financial support reaches those that need it most as quickly as possible, which is why we are encouraging those in the Solihull area who think that they may be eligible to apply before the deadline next week.

“The Chamber is continuing to work with external stakeholders and policymakers to raise awareness of the extent to which businesses are continuing to be affected by Covid-19 and the ongoing support that the business community needs to make it to the other side of the pandemic.

“Please get in touch with us via our dedicated KBM Inbox or through your Relationship Manager to share your experience and help inform our lobbying activity. ”

For more information and to apply, please visit Solihull Council 's website.

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