£533 million Paid to Businesses Since November

More than half a billion pounds in lifeline support has been paid to Scottish businesses affected by the pandemic since November 2020.

The Strategic Framework Business Fund had paid out £214 million by 22nd February according to latest figures. Approximately 89 per cent of this support went to small and medium-sized businesses with a rateable value less than £51,000.

An additional £218 million was paid out under the Hospitality, Retail and Leisure Top-Up fund in the period to 26th February.

Information has also been published showing payments across nine sectoral schemes including the Wedding Sector Fund which was only available in Scotland.

Key Funds Set to Close - Act Now

The Scottish Government has confirmed its Newly Self-Employed Hardship Fund and its Mobile And Home Based Close Contact Services Fund has been extended and will now close for applications at 5pm on 23rd March 2021.

If you are eligible and haven't submitted an application, please do so now by clicking on the links above to find out more.

Support for Small Accommodation Providers Paying Council Tax Fund

Applications for a new fund to support small accommodation providers in Scotland, including B&Bs, guest houses and self-catering businesses impacted by the COVID-19 restrictions will be launched on Monday 15th March for one week only.

Click here to see if you are eligible and find out how to apply

Campervan and Motorhome Rental Operators Fund Now Open - One Week Only

The fund has been established to provide financial support to Scottish businesses in the campervan and motorhome rental sector that have been severely affected by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, to help keep them in business while restrictions on opening and travel are still in place, and to support them to prepare to operate in 2021 when restrictions are lifted.

Find out more and apply now

The HR Booth is an approved Kickstart Gateway, which aims to support employers with the Kickstart Programme by offering fully subsidised jobs for young people across the country.
 
As well as taking care of all the administration associated with the programme, it will also deliver the compulsory employability training for all placements, ensuring the employers represented meet the criteria

Read the full story now in Fife Business Matters

Scottish Enterprise is looking for Scottish Supply Chain companies to participate in a virtual trade mission to Western Australia.

Scottish Enterprise is working with the organisers of AOG Energy (formerly known as Australasian Oil & Gas) to identify potential suppliers of a broad range of services and solutions.

Click here to find out more

Recovery Loan Scheme Launched

The Recovery Loan Scheme will provide support to UK businesses as they recover and grow following the disruption of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

The scheme ensures that businesses of any size can continue to access loans and other kinds of finance up to £10 million per business once the existing COVID-19 loan schemes close.

The UK Government will guarantee 80 per cent of the finance to the lender to give them the confidence to lend to businesses.

Find out more

Wider Roll Out of 4G and 5G for Scotland 

A “game-changing” initiative that will pave the way for greater 4G and 5G mobile connectivity across Scotland has been unveiled.

Communities and businesses will benefit from the launch of a new toolkit by the Infralink programme which will help identify sites on public buildings for masts and antennae - easing the process of reaching agreements to install them. 

Click here to find out more.

Strategy Updated for Creating an Inclusive Digital World in Scotland

An ambition to achieve ”world leading" levels of digital inclusion is at the heart of plans to equip Scotland for the technological transformation of the post-coronavirus (COVID-19) world.

The updated Digital Strategy, developed by the Scottish Government and COSLA in consultation with business and the third sector, also highlights a shared commitment to deliver digital public services that are accessible to all and simple to use.

Find out more

Rental Sector Loan Schemes Extended

Tenants and private sector landlords facing financial difficulties caused by the pandemic have more time to access support after two loan schemes were extended.

The Tenant Hardship Loan Fund and the Private Rent Sector Landlord (non-business) COVID-19 Loan Scheme, both of which offer interest-free loans, will continue to receive applications beyond the original deadline of 31st March 2021.

Find out more

Here to Help - Request a Call Back from a Business Adviser

We understand things may be extremely challenging at the moment whether it's dealing with financial issues, supporting your employees, or understanding what needs to be in place to enable you to safely reopen.

If you have any questions or just need someone to talk to, our business advisers are here to help.

Request a call back now

Free Online Workshops and Seminars 

Our exciting events programme is packed with workshops and training seminars which will help you to learn new skills, implement new ideas and improve your operations, as you look to rebuild your business.

Featuring new seminars on key topics such as managing your online reputation and producing your own video content, as well as some of the most popular courses to take control of your website, marketing activities and bookkeeping, we are here to support your business and help upskill your team. 

Find out more and download the brochure now

SUPPORT PACKAGES AVAILABLE 

Business Rates Support for Fife Businesses

The Creative Sector