Government crisis grants

Over 2,000 businesses in North Lanarkshire have received Scottish Government grants to support firms through the coronavirus crisis.

A total of £23.47 million has been awarded in North Lanarkshire through a Scottish Government scheme to support small businesses and the retail, hospitality and leisure sector.

This grant support is worth over £1 billion to business, and is part of the wider business support package worth £2.3 billion.

So that funding can be distributed as quickly as possible, eligibility for the grant scheme is linked to the non-domestic rates system.

Shotts MSP Alex Neil said:“This is a very difficult time for businesses.

“This Scottish Government funding is designed to support firms and ensure that our economy is on the best possible footing when we get through this health crisis.

“Our support for business is now worth £2.3 billion, which is more than we have received from the UK Government and actively works to fill the gaps in the UK schemes with tailored support for the Scottish economy.

“I encourage all businesses in North Lanarkshire to ensure they are receiving the support they’re entitled to.”

A £100 million package of additional grant support for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and newly self-employed people is now open for applications.

The three Scottish Government funds include a £34 million hardship fund for the newly self-employed, a £20 million fund for small and micro enterprises in the creative, tourism and hospitality sectors and £45 million for viable SMEs.