Decision details

1.1       The government is providing financial support for small and micro businesses that were not eligible for assistance in the Small Business Grant Fund or the Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Grant Fund.  The businesses that were eligible for support from these funds were those that paid business rates.

1.2       This additional support will be made via a Local Authority Discretionary Grant Fund.

1.3       Local Authorities (LA) have been given a fixed grant to distribute to eligible businesses under a local scheme. 

1.4       Local Authorities must set out clear criteria for determining the appropriate level of grant, to give businesses clarity and support businesses that are unable to access other grant funding.

Full details are set out in the Cabinet Member report below

1.1       That the Discretionary Grant Fund policy be approved.

1.2       That the Cabinet Members for Investment, Economic Growth & Tourism and Customer Services and Innovation, and the Head of Customer Services, Revenues and Benefits review and broaden the scope of the policy if appropriate.