HEREFORDSHIRE business owners looking to make a move into a retail premises can now apply for grants from the county council.

Businesses looking to try retail — either as a ‘pop-up' type arrangement or a permanent premises — can apply for grants of £500 to £2,500 to help cover rent, marketing and equipment purchases. 

Existing businesses wishing to take on retail or commercial premises for the first time can now apply for grants of £2,500 to £10,000 towards rent, improvements to premises and equipment.

The ‘revive and thrive’ business support grants are being funded as part of the county council’s Covid-19 recovery plan, supporting economic recovery and improving wellbeing in Herefordshire.

Councillor Ellie Chowns, cabinet member fo the environment and economy, said: “It has been a difficult time for all new and small businesses, so it is more important now than ever before that support is available to help them develop and grow.

“There will be small businesses that have outgrown home working, and people producing goods who would like to try selling on the high street. 

“This financial boost aims to help new and growing businesses to take those bold steps to make a move into commercial premises for the first time.”

For more information, contact reviveandthrive@herefordshire.gov.uk.