Almost half of eligible Bedford businesses yet to apply for government coronavirus support cash

Bedford Borough Council says almost half of all eligible firms have yet to apply for a coronavirus support grant.

The Government’s grants provide £10,000 for businesses ratepayers in receipt of small business or rural rate relief, and up to £25,000 for eligible retail, leisure and hospitality ratepayers.

Bedford Borough Council is administering the grants locally and has established a process designed to get cash to eligible firms as swiftly as possible. £17.2million has already been paid out to 1,500 businesses.

However, more than 2,800 Bedford firms overall are believed to be eligible for grants, suggesting almost half have yet to apply.

Mayor Dave Hodgson said: “It is crucial that eligible local business ratepayers get the cash support designed to help see them through these difficult times. Council officers have worked flat out to get more than £17million into the accounts of small businesses so far, and we don’t want any local firms to miss out on the support available.

“This is a cash grant and it’s quick and easy to apply, so if your business could be eligible please do so today.”

You can apply for a grant, and find out more about the scheme and other coronavirus support for business here