Back in Business scheme opens for applications
The Department of Finance’s Back in Business scheme aimed at attracting businesses onto the high streets and into town centres has opened for applications.
The scheme offers businesses a 50% rates discount for up to two years if they move into premises which were previously used for retail purposes and have been unoccupied for 12 months or more.
It is hoped the initiative will support regeneration of high streets while facilitating new businesses in moving into their first premises or provide opportunities for existing businesses to expand into additional premises.
The Back in Business scheme is open to all business types. Applications will be accepted up until 31st March 2023.
The rates discount of 50% is granted for 24 months beginning on the day which the retail unit becomes occupied, and “retail purposes” means the retail provision of goods or services to members of the public who visit the property.
Further information can be found at nibusinessinfo.co.uk/business-
