Over £2.2 million extra funding for Southern Oxfordshire businesses is available this winter

Extra cash is available to help businesses that have been severely affected by Covid-19 restrictions to get through the winter months.

Local businesses can now apply for a grant of up to £15,000 to help to keep them going through the quieter trading months. The funds could help businesses to become more resilient and will help to create a more sustainable local economy as we recover from the impact on the pandemic.

In total, South Oxfordshire District Council has £1,239,551 available and the Vale of White Horse District Council has £1,030,049.  

The funds are available for new businesses or those in the events, travel and tourism sectors, and comes from the government’s Additional Restrictions Grant, which aims to help organisation most affected by the ongoing pandemic. 

Cllr Bethia Thomas, Cabinet Member for Community Engagement at Vale of White Horse District Council, said: “Times are still uncertain and for new businesses it can be even more challenging not knowing what’s ahead.  That’s why we are committed to helping wherever we can, including being able to offer this additional funding.”

Cllr Robin Bennett, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Regeneration at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “The events and tourism sectors are important for our area and have taken a big hit over the past 18 months, and continue to face challenges due to the pandemic. We hope this funding will help with their recovery.

“We are also able to offer support for start-ups, recognising that many people have started new ventures recently. We’re urging any new business owners that started trading since 1 April to apply.”

Applications for support are open until midday on 16 December 2021.

Applicants will be assessed on evidence that demonstrates the ongoing effect of the pandemic on their business and those eligible will receive support early in the new year.