Coronavirus: Town Hall launches online system for business grants – with £3 million paid out already

Hackney Council has set up an online system so local businesses affected by the coronavirus crisis can apply for grants “as quickly as possible”.

Firms can claim up to £25,000 using the form, with the Town Hall having paid out £3 million so far to 350 companies whose bank details are already on its books.

The council is managing the distribution of the government’s relief funds for small businesses and for those in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors, as well as support with business rates.

The majority of local firms need to submit their details online so their claims can be processed.

The grants are part of the council’s £100million support package, which includes rent deferrals for commercial tenants, the suspension of fees and charges, and immediate payment terms for suppliers.

Cllr Guy Nicholson, cabinet member for planning, culture and inclusive economy, said: “We know how hard this crisis is hitting our local businesses, and we want to do everything we can as quickly as possible to support them and help with cashflow issues. 

“It’s essential that businesses give us their details now so we can process their claim as quickly as possible and get them the grants they desperately need.”

The Town Hall’s Hackney Business Network is updating members with weekly emails, as well as on social media, and answers to frequently asked questions about the grant schemes are available.

Companies in the retail, leisure and hospitality sectors, including pubs, with a rateable value of over £15,000 and under £51,000, will be eligible to receive a £25,000 grant in 2020/21 on top of their business rates relief.

Firms in the same category but with a rateable value up to and including £15,000 will be eligible for a £10,000 grant in 2020/21 in addition to business rates support.

And companies who receive small business rates relief will be eligible to receive a £10,000 grant in 2020/21 on top of their existing help.

The council says it will continue to press ministers on behalf of firms who are not eligible for these grants or business rates relief.

For more information, or to submit a claim, head to hackney.gov.uk/businessrates