New cash help for busineses that missed out on grants

APPLICATIONS for a new business grant are now open.

The ARG Omicron Support Grant is being administered by Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council to support a range of businesses impacted by the Omicron variant.

Eligible businesses include hospitality, accommodation, leisure, personal care, the travel and tourism sector (including group travel), travel agents and tour operators, coach operators, wedding industries, nightclubs, theatres, events industries, wholesalers, English language schools, breweries, freelance and mobile businesses – including caterers, events, hair, beauty and wedding-related businesses – and gyms.

Businesses that do not have a rateable value are eligible to apply for this discretionary scheme which aims to help affected businesses which do not meet the criteria for other grants.

The council has said priority will be given to businesses in the greatest need.

Grants are expected to range from £500 up to £2,500, but the council retains discretion to award lower or higher grants as it sees fit.

As funding is limited, grants will be paid on a first come first served basis as long as all necessary information is supplied.

Council leader, Stuart Bray said: “The Omicron variant could not have hit businesses at a worse time. I would urge the borough’s businesses to check if they are eligible for this latest government grant by visiting our website and applying before the deadline of February 21.

“All grant payments remain a priority and we are keen to distribute these grants to support our businesses as soon as possible.”

Eligible businesses must submit a new application by February 21, regardless of previous grants they have applied for.

Full details on the eligibility criteria as the application form are available on the council’s website.