Grow your business with the business growth funding

June 17, 2020

Funding to support business growth for local businesses has been secured through a multi-authority programme.

The South East Business Boost programme secured £12.5 million of funding to provide support for business growth for eligible small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Essex, Kent & Medway and East Sussex until December 2022. Managed by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, the programme provides a platform for businesses to access free support using funding from the EU Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

South East Business Boost has an experienced team ready to help ambitious SMEs take their business to the next level. From new equipment and machinery, to new technology and services, if it helps your business to grow, then you could reclaim 30% of the total project costs. You could receive a growth grant of between £1,000 and £10,000 which is not a loan – you do not have to pay it back.

Cllr Kevin Robinson, cabinet member for business, culture and tourism, said: “Many fantastic businesses have benefitted from the South East Business Boost programme. In this hugely challenging period for small and medium sized enterprises, this new tranche of funding should inspire and enable more businesses to grow in the future.”

The programme also offers access up to £2,000 worth of free business support through one-to-one advice, together with full business assessments. In addition, the programme provides access to free business support workshops.

Brian Smith, South East Business Boost programme manager, said: “The business community has been hit hard by the effects of the Coronavirus, and more than ever, it’s vital that businesses can access cash grants and fantastic advice to support business owners who are innovating and growing their business.

“Our programme has already supported over 1,000 companies across the South East Local Enterprise Partnership region, with over £2.8m already paid in grants, hundreds of new jobs created, and 2,200 hours of business advice given so far. We are looking forward to supporting continued business growth.”

The South East Business Boost Programme is a Partnership between Essex County Council, Kent County Council, East Sussex County Council, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council and Thurrock Council.

To find out more about the South East Business Boost Programme, please visit www.sebusinessboost.org.uk email sebb@southend.gov.uk or call 01702 215368.