Retail NI welcome further progress on small business grants for renters

Small businesses that occupy a rental property can now apply for the £10,000 Small Business Support Grant Scheme.

An online form is now live on the NI Business Info website for businesses hoping to avail of the grant.

Minister Diane Dodds also confirmed that the first payments had been made under the £25,000 grant scheme for businesses in the retail, hospitality, tourism and leisure sectors.

Reacting to the announcement, Retail NI Chief Executive Glyn Roberts said:

“Retail NI had been strongly lobbying for this and we are delighted that Minister Dodds has listened to our members’ concerns.

“Across our members’ stores we have a significant number of micro businesses, such as butchers who rent counters from them,” he continued. “These grants will be of considerable help to them and many other small businesses occupying a rental property which are struggling in this crisis.

“While this is welcome progress, the £10K and £25k small business grants need to be altered to support those companies with multiple premises rather than just a single payment.

“This change would support front-line independent retailers who have more than one store and who continue to provide food and other essential products to consumers. It would also assist those independent retailers who have had to close their doors during this crisis.”