Rochford District Council Business Growth Grant Scheme

rdc@smartersociety.org Grant Information

£3,000 Grants to Boost Small Businesses

Rochford District Council is offering an exciting opportunity for sole traders, micro and small businesses and community interest companies within the District to access funding that will help them implement innovative technologies and business processes. The grants, worth £3,000 each, are designed to support businesses in adopting new approaches that can enhance productivity and foster long-term growth.

Supporting Business Innovation

As part of its commitment to supporting local enterprises, the council is keen to help businesses embrace the tools and technologies that will drive future success. The grants are aimed at encouraging micro businesses to integrate new systems or processes that are essential for staying competitive in today’s fast-evolving market such as:

  • New software or IT equipment that improves your business processes and operational efficiency and/or diversifies your product range

  • Specialist / technical training to upskill you or your staff

  • New website with advanced features and functionality to enable your business to become more competitive in the marketplace 

  • Promotion and marketing materials

  • Specialist consultancy that provides strategic advice to the business

  • Diversification or new product development

Applications open on 31st January 2025

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Rochford District Council Business Growth Grant Scheme Photograph

 

Who Can Apply?

The grant programme is open to businesses based in the Rochford district. To qualify, businesses must demonstrate how the grant will be used to introduce technologies or processes that are new to their operations. This could include investing in digital tools, enhancing online services, automating business tasks, or adopting more sustainable practices.

This initiative is part of the council’s broader strategy to make Rochford District a great place to do business.

 

Eligible Types:

  • Sole Traders

  • Micro Business

  • Small Business

  • Community Interest Companies

Requirements:

  • Organisations must employ less than 50 full-time employees and have an annual turnover less than £10.2m or £5.1m or less on its balance sheet.

  • Based in Rochford District - confirmed via https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council

  • Has a UK bank account.

  • Trading for the last 24 months

  • Confirmation of alignment to state aid max value requirements

How to Apply

Businesses interested in applying for the grant should check the eligibility criteria and submit a detailed plan outlining how the funding will be used. The application process is straightforward, and the council is encouraging businesses to take advantage of this valuable resource.

Applications close on Friday 14th February 2025 at 12pm

Please note: All goods/services must be procured by 31 March 2025, you will be asked to provide evidence of procurement.

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