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Restart and Recovery
In his Spring Budget 2021, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced two new funding opportunities for businesses impacted by COVID-19:
- Restart Grants to enable non-essential retail, hospitality & leisure to re-open.
- A Recovery Loan Scheme to replace other government back loan schemes.
Both are now open for applications. So what do you need to know and how can you benefit?
Restart Grants
From 12 April, non-essential shops in England and Wales are once again opening their doors. Gyms and hairdressers are also re-opening. Pubs & restaurants can serve customers outdoors.
Restart Grants were introduced on 1 April immediately following the closure of existing grant programmes. Eligible non-essential retailers will receive grants of up to £6k; hospitality and leisure businesses will be able to claim up to £18k.
The Restart Grant is a one-off. Rating lists thresholds apply which go up to £15k, between £15k and £51k and finally £51k and over. A non-essential retail business, for example, occupying premises with a rateable value of £51k or above on 1 April 2021, will receive a payment of £6k. Hospitality & accommodation, leisure, personal care and gyms in the same band would receive £18k.
You must have been trading on 1 April, 2021 to be eligible.
How do I apply?
If you are applying for the Restart Grant and have not applied previously for a business support grant then you must submit an application form.
Visit your local council’s website: Find your local council
Birmingham City Council invites applications here.
If, however, you have previously applied for a Local Restriction Support Grant you do not need to re-apply for this Grant. The authorities will automatically consider your application.
When will I receive payment?
We're still waiting for news on when businesses can expect to receive payouts, as councils await funding from central Government. Keeping checking your council’s website.
Recovery Loan Scheme
The Recovery Loan Scheme replaces Coronavirus Business interruption Loans Scheme (CBILS) and Bounce Back Loans (BBLS). You can apply for a loan or other facility from £25k to £10m, whether it’s to manage your cash flow or for growth.
The aim of the scheme is better terms. The Government guarantees 80% of the finance to the lender. You’re 100% liable for the debt. A personal guarantee may be required for amounts in excess of £250k.
If I took out a CBILS or a BBLS then can I still apply?
Yes, although please be aware that current borrowings may limit the amount available for you under the new loan scheme. It’s also additional to a Restart Grant by the way, and not an either/or.
Am I eligible?
Applicants will need to demonstrate the ability to repay the loan facility.
Your business must have been impacted by the pandemic, be trading in the UK and have a viable business proposition.
Same question then… how do I apply?
The Recovery Loan Scheme is available through a number of British Business Bank accredited lenders. Approach your chosen lender directly. Loan facilities are provided at its discretion.
Get in touch
Seeking additional finance? Get in touch with us to find out how we can help.
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