£200k financial assistance released for firms

Working with the Department for Communities who have provided this funding, the Council has engaged with businesses in town centre and village locations to identify their immediate needs as a result of the pandemic.

Alongside this support package, 23 rural businesses have also been awarded grants totalling £86,000 under the Tackling Rural Poverty & Social Isolation Programme funded by Department for Agriculture Environment and Rural Affairs.

This will allow them to invest in new equipment and capital items to help address the current economic challenges of the pandemic and then grow again post recovery.

Businesses will also use the money to make their businesses Covid secure as well as providing innovative solutions to help them grow in the future.

The funding will cover the costs of minor capital works, technology and innovation, equipment and supplies as well as marketing and communications.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Jim Montgomery praised the various schemes as well as highlighted the importance of local businesses adapting to the current global situation.

He explained: “Covid- 19 has required our businesses to adapt and innovate with a speed never experienced before.

“These changes cost money and these grants will be key to unlocking those vital improvements that will see our local businesses firstly address the current economic challenges and then grow once again.

“Businesses have moved fast and I’m proud the Council and our funding partners have been able to set a similar pace to deliver this vital support.”

For more information on help that is available to businesses visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/coronavirus-information-for-businesses or Text BUSINESS to 80039.

Eligibility, terms and conditions will apply.

The Council also continues to operate its business support services including free mentoring as well as tips and advice.

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