Renfrewshire business support tops £23million

Grant support for Renfrewshire businesses to mitigate the impact of Coronavirus has now topped £23million, with 98% of all applications having been considered.

Renfrewshire Council’s business teams have awarded 2075 grants from the Scottish Government’s Coronavirus Business Support fund.

Some 1876 small business grants have been issued, totalling £18.5million and 199 retail, hospitality and leisure business grants have been awarded, providing £4.8million in relief for companies to counter the impact of Coronavirus.

This small business grant has now been extended to support tenants and occupiers of premises such as shared office spaces, business incubators and shared industrial units

Local businesses are urged to apply now if they require support, with the Scottish Government confirming new applications to this fund will close on Friday 10 July 2020.

A further £380,000 in hardship grants has helped 190 people newly self-employed.

Renfrewshire Council Leader Iain Nicolson said: “Coronavirus is having a huge impact on all communities across Scotland and upon the local and national economy.

“Our business teams are working tirelessly to approve and award government grants and provide local businesses with support and guidance at this tremendously difficult time.

“I would encourage local employers and employees to visit our support for business web page which is being constantly updated with all the available funding schemes, including sector-specific support and employability advice too.”

The council web page www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/coronavirus-businesses will also have details of additional funding being made available for small B&Bs from Monday 15 June.

Throughout the Covid-19 outbreak, Renfrewshire business leaders, enterprise and education agencies have been in regular contact to consider the current situation and collaborate on the steps needed towards recovery.

Councillor Nicolson said: “The recent news of the potential for major job losses at Rolls-Royce is a devastating blow for everyone affected, including many Renfrewshire residents employed at the Inchinnan site.

“Our priority is to identify how we can support those at risk of losing their jobs and we are in contact with Rolls Royce and working with Government and national agencies to help mitigate the impact of this decision wherever possible.

“I know many more businesses big and small are struggling and we must be ready and able to tackle the social and economic harm now and in the months ahead.”