A significant new funding scheme to deliver an economic boost and support recovery from Covid is now available to businesses and not-for-profit organisations in Babergh, including those on the Shotley peninsula.

The Back to Business Grant is a one-off payment of up to £25,000 to support businesses in their recovery from the impact of Covid 19 and improve their long-term sustainability through resilience and diversification projects.

Designed to support local post covid economic recovery by encouraging projects that enhance visitor experience or increase footfall in town and village centres.

Priority will be given to organisations working in a partnership approach to local projects delivering economic recovery, projects that support job creation and opportunities to improve to business resilience and sustainability.

This grant fund is also open to businesses and organisations who are seeking to grow or diversify their business, create more jobs or increase productivity.

Businesses or organisations trading from Babergh that meet the criteria, can apply for the Back to Business Grant online with a project outline or summary of activity that will be supported by this funding.

Commenting on the grant, Dr Peter Funnell, chair, Suffolk Chamber in Central Suffolk said: "As businesses and organisations create the 'new normal' following an unprecedented year of closures and restrictions, the Back to Business Grant will provide a powerful boost to business growth and wider economic recovery across Babergh and Mid Suffolk."

In addition to the Back to Business Grant, there is also funding available through the Discretionary Restart Grant to help businesses reopen safely and introduce further covid secure measures.

Businesses that have already received a covid business support grant can still apply for either the Back to Business or Discretionary Restart Grant.

Cllr Michael Holt, Babergh District Council's cabinet member for economic growth commented:

"Over the last 12 months, there has been several grants available to support businesses through the coronavirus pandemic and both the Back to Business and Discretionary Restart Grants offer additional financial support to businesses as they reopen their doors, welcome back customers and get back on their feet."

The Back to Business Grant can be used by community and not-for-profit organisations as well as businesses who want to launch projects that will benefit their local area by welcoming visitors or helping to increase footfall to our towns and villages.

Applications for this round of the Back to Business and Discretionary Restart Grant must be submitted by 13th June 2021.

Guidance notes and applications forms can be found by visiting www.babergh.gov.uk while the economic development team can be contact for further advice by emailing [email protected] or calling 01473 296444.