Hull City Council has launched a new grant scheme which will deliver up to £5,000 for start-up businesses in the city.

The grant scheme, through Government funding, will allow the council to help the local economy’s recovery from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic while supporting business formation and growth.  

It is aimed at new Hull businesses formed or registered on or after 11 March 2020. Most businesses eligible for support are expected to receive grants of around £2,000, with a maximum award of £5,000.

The funding can be used for business costs including equipment, business websites, support with rent and ICT-related items.

Councillor Daren Hale, Leader of Hull City Council, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for new businesses in the city to apply for grant funding for a wide range of business costs, giving new businesses a huge boost.

“Hull has fast become a great place for start-ups. Our business support teams do a brilliant job of helping new businesses to get off to the best possible start.

“All businesses have suffered setbacks due to the effects of the pandemic, but grant delivery like this will not only help out start-ups, it will also deliver a boost for the local economy as we already start to see the green shoots of recovery sprouting through.”

Businesses wishing to make an application should first complete an online expression of interest form so the team can determine eligibility. Once eligibility is confirmed, a dedicated business advisor will help businesses to develop their application and signpost them to other relevant support.

The closing date for applications is 31 January 2022. The scheme has an end date of 31 March 2022.

Following the launch of a partnership between the council and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), more than 50 firms in the city have so far benefited from a range of expert services, resources and opportunities provided through FSB membership.

Announced in April of this year, the council is providing £20,000 of funding to ensure small businesses in Hull can get fully-funded membership to the FSB for their first year.

Hull businesses are already taking advantage of the scheme, receiving support from the FSB on subjects including business banking, insurance, legal protection and networking.

For more information on the Start up Grant Scheme, FSB membership offer or other forms of business support, email Hull City Council at business.support@hullcc.gov.uk