Posted: 31 / 03 / 2020

The Government have launched two new Business Grant Support Funds in response to the disruption caused to businesses by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The first supports small businesses that pay little or no business rates with a £10,000 cash payment. The second supports businesses in the sectors of Retail, Hospitality and Leisure with up to £25,000.

If you think you might qualify, the next steps for you are:

Step 1 – Verify that you qualify



Criteria for the Small Business Grant Scheme…

  • Your business is based in England
  • Your business occupies property
  • Your business is receiving Small Business Rate Relief OR Rural Relief as of 11th March 2020

Criteria for the Retail and Hospitality Grant Scheme…

  • Your business is based in England
  • Companies operating within the industries of Hospitality, or Retail and Leisure

Properties that will benefit from the relief will be occupied hereditaments that are wholly or mainly being used for the following…

  • As shops, restaurants, cafes, drinking establishments, cinemas and live music venues
  • For assembly and leisure
  • As hotels, guest and boarding premises and self-catering accommodation


Step 2 – Submit your claim online



The grant is accessed through your local authority’s portal, which are going live across the country. If yours has not yet gone live, check your local authority webpage periodically.

Each Local Authority will present an online verification portal. This process will inform you of your eligibility and allow you the opportunity to update all of your required details.

Step 3 – Wait for your local authority to complete your application



Your Local Authority will process your application and send the funds to each of the eligible businesses in their locality.

COVID-19 Business Support



Our designated COVID-19 Hub provides updates, guidance and advice to support you, your business and your employees.

Whether you need to access funding to help cashflow, an injection of cash through an R&D claim or just looking for trusted advice, we’re here to help.