Grants of up to £20,000 are now available to businesses based in town centres in Stafford Borough.
The £125,000 of funding made available by Stafford Borough Council can help small and medium-sized businesses based in Stafford, Stone and Eccleshall.
It is the latest addition to the High Street Boost Programme, which has already provided financial support or expert advice to many enterprises across the borough through a range of initiatives.
The new grants offer between £2,000 and £20,000 which can be used for website design, funding for training, specialist advice or office equipment.
Applications are open until the end of February.
Two new workshops are also being held on 23 January and 19 February following ‘popular’ demand with the chance for people to learn from business and retail experts with the chance of having further one-to-one support.
Funding for the initiatives has come from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
Councillor Rob Kenney, Deputy Leader with responsibility for town centres, said: “The High Street Boost programme has proved very popular, so it is great to be able to offer even more support in the new year. It is often the high-profile projects that grab the headlines – but equally important is the need to grow our new and existing businesses and this initiative demonstrates the council’s ambition to do just that across the borough.
“I would urge those who have not taken advantage of this previously to get on board. It has been described as ‘invaluable’ and those businesses taking part are seeing the benefits – whether that be through new technology or expert advice.”
Janet Markwell, owner of The Corner Patch, a patchwork and quilting shop in Eccleshall, said: “I have found the support from my consultant helpful. As a result, I have made changes to the layout and displays in the shop, with lots of positive comments from customers following these changes.
“Having someone to give supportive criticism, look at what we do with fresh eyes, and share best practice is already having a significant effect. I am looking forward to the future sessions as I sure they will be equally beneficial.”
To find out more about the grants, and apply, visit this website.
For more information about the workshops, or to register, click here.
