A scheme has been launched to boost local business in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

It is part of Gravesham council's £2.2 million economic recovery package.

While the scheme is open to all local businesses, priority will be given to those that have been unable to apply to earlier grant programmes and those which are of strategic importance to the borough or make significant contribution to employment, training, well-being or culture.

Cllr John Burden, leader of Gravesham council, said: “We know that many of our local businesses have suffered greatly during the pandemic and continue to do so.

“That is why we announced a £2.2million economic stimulus package as part of our budget for 2021/22. We are determined that no business in the borough will be left behind as we come out of this difficult last year.

“We have worked hard to ensure that all the government’s grant schemes have reached qualifying businesses within the borough quickly, efficiently, and with the absolute minimum of red tape and admin.

“But we also know there are businesses that have slipped through gaps in the Government support net and are struggling to get back on their feet as a result. These new grants are designed to help them fight back.”

Applications for the new Severity of Impact grants are especially welcome from businesses within the supply chain for goods or services to the retail, hospitality or leisure sector; businesses occupying commercial workspace which have had to close temporarily due to it not being possible to trade in a Covid secure way; limited companies, including charitable companies, not-for-profit companies/social enterprises that can show a significant reduction in income; and businesses in any sector that have been able to remain open and can show that Covid-19 restrictions have had a severe impact on their business.

The closing date for applications is June 13. Visit my.gravesham.gov.uk

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