Birmingham City Council financial challenges - time to Reset

To find out more about the budget and section 114 notice, visit our budget information page

Discretionary Business Grant applications go live

Published: Monday, 3rd August 2020

Applications for the final wave of Discretionary Business Grants have opened today.

Businesses impacted by COVID-19 are invited to apply for a cash grant available through the Discretionary Business Grant.

The Council has today, Monday 3 August 2020, opened applications for a two-week period. Businesses will be able to apply for a grant payment of up to £25,000 which does not need to be repaid.

The final wave of applications serves to support a wider range of businesses that have been affected. The eligibility criteria for applications now means that small businesses across all sectors, which have not benefitted from any of the government grants, have fixed ongoing commercial costs and which can demonstrate a 30% loss in income may be able to apply for a grant.

Councillor Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said:

“This is about protecting Birmingham jobs and livelihoods and we urge businesses to ensure that they apply within this two-week window for a discretionary business grant. Businesses have suffered greatly during this difficult time and we are making sure that we are doing everything we can to support those affected.

“Businesses could be awarded a grant of up to £25,000 if they are eligible. You will also need to make sure you submit all required information to avoid any delays in processing your grant payment and to ensure that you don’t miss out.”

Applications will close on Monday 17 August 2020 at midday; therefore, businesses are advised to ensure they apply as soon as possible.

The council will be working to allocate all grant funding within 28 days after the scheme closes and applications will be determined on a first-come-first-served basis. Applications without the required supporting evidence may face a delay in receiving a payment or could miss out altogether.

Businesses who were unsuccessful in the first round can also reapply, as can businesses with a Rateable Value of over £51,000, who were previously excluded from the small business grant scheme.

For more information on the eligibility criteria and evidence which is require when applying, visit the Discretionary Grants information page on the Birmingham City Council website.

rating button