Grants of up to £20,000 are now available for businesses based in town centres in Stafford Borough.

Stafford Borough Council has launched a new £125,000 funding which can help small and medium-sized businesses based in Stafford, Stone and Eccleshall in the latest addition to a popular scheme.

The High Street Boost programme has already supported many enterprises across the borough with financial support or expert advice as part of a range of initiatives - with the help being described as ‘invaluable.’

Now the council is encouraging others to apply for the latest round of grants of between £2,000 and £20,000 which can be used for website design, funding for training, specialist advice or office equipment.

Applications are open until the end of February and if people want to find out more, and apply, they can find all the details from High Street Boost Grant | Stafford Borough Council

And two new workshops are being rolled out in January and February following ‘popular’ demand with the chance for people to learn from business and retail experts with the chance of having further one-to-one support.

Funding for the initiatives has come from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) with the borough council awarded one of the largest pots of money in the country. The local authority successfully put forward schemes to help the visitor economy, regeneration, climate change and culture.

Councillor Rob Kenney, Deputy Leader with responsibility for town centres, said the feedback they had received from business had been tremendous.

He said: “The High Street Boost programme has proved very popular so it is great to be able to offer even more support in the new year. It is often the high-profile projects that grab the headlines - but equally important is the need to grow our new and existing businesses and this initiative demonstrates the council’s ambition to do just that across the borough.

“I would urge those who have not taken advantage of this previously to get on board. It has been described as ‘invaluable’ and those businesses taking part are seeing the benefits - whether that be through new technology or expert advice.”

Janet Markwell, owner of The Corner Patch, a patchwork and quilting shop in Eccleshall, said: “I have found the support from my consultant helpful. As a result, I have made changes to the layout and displays in the shop, with lots of positive comments from customers following these changes.

“Having someone to give supportive criticism, look at what we do with fresh eyes, and share best practice is already having a significant effect. I am looking forward to the future sessions as I sure they will be equally beneficial.”

The two new workshops will be held on Thursday 23 January and Wednesday 19 February and small and medium businesses can see more of what they offer and how to sign up at www.staffordbc.gov.uk/high-street-boost

The ’High Street Boost’ scheme is run by experts ‘Good2Great’ who have helped businesses across the Midlands.

And for a complete list of the many initiatives to support local businesses go to Business Support | Stafford Borough Council

Press Release No 6180