BT launches programme to aid small companies in the region
BT HAS announced a package of support to help the 428,000 small firms across Yorkshire.
The communications giant said the measures were being imposed to allow small firms to get better positioned for recovery and growth following the coronavirus outbreak and as they prepare for a post-Brexit future.
BT’s Small Business Support Scheme sees the company introduce a range of new measures to help small businesses boost their connectivity, cash flow and confidence – key concerns which have been identified by Small Business Britain’s recent surveys of its membership.
BT’s action plan includes a commitment to pay its 4,500 small business suppliers promptly and within 30 days of being invoiced, to helping firms fund the cost of ultrafast business connections, as well as access to free resources such as business mentoring, digital skills and mental health support.
Sarah Walker, BT director for corporate and public sector in the North of England, said: “With small businesses accounting for more than 99 per cent of all businesses across Yorkshire, they are the beating heart of our economy, high streets and communities.
“They deserve the support of each and every one of us to help them thrive into the future.”
James Muir, chair of the Sheffield City Region LEP, said: “The coronavirus pandemic has meant that many of our region’s businesses have had to adapt to a new way of working.
“It is important that if we are to recover from this pandemic, and then build back better we need to provide businesses with the help and support they need to improve their digital skills.
“The new BT Small Business Support Scheme is a great starting point and one that I would encourage businesses to sign up to.”