Over £2.2 million extra funding for Southern Oxfordshire businesses is

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

Local businesses will be able to 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.”

Businesses based in the South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse districts can
find out if they are eligible via the South and Vale Business Support website.
Applications for support are open until midday on 16 December.
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.

LINKS:

Winter Grant Support Outline – South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse

Press release – ARG – South and Vale Winter Support Grant

South and Vale Winter Support Grants FAQs