Support for Growth, Business Survey, Census 2021 and Grants Update
Business@Harrogate
Growing Your Business: 11 February
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Businesses across the Harrogate district are seeing the benefits of sharing experiences, supported by the popular Peer to Peer sessions.

At the session on 11 February guest business speakers will explain how they have pivoted and grown during COVID, with suggestions on how to face current challenges.

With a focus on business support, agility and resilience, the 90 minute session is free to attend for eligible businesses, but places are limited.

Climate Change Business Survey for the Harrogate District
The Harrogate District Climate Change Coalition (HDCCC) is working with the council to secure a
net-zero carbon economy.

Understanding what climate change means to businesses is a key focus for the Coalition. A new survey will inform a carbon reduction strategy, and help the Coalition provide businesses with the right support.

Designed for employees, managers and owners of businesses in the Harrogate District, please complete the survey by 4 April.

Bounce Back Loan Amended: Pay as You Grow
Bounce Back Loan borrowers will now have the option to tailor payments according to their individual circumstances.

Announced by the Chancellor on 8 February, Pay as You Grow repayment flexibilities will offer options to:

  • Extend the length of the loan from six years to ten

  • Make interest-only payments for six months, with the option to use this up to three times throughout the loan

  • Pause repayments entirely for up to six months.

Digital Marketing Skills for Your Business
Digital Advantage are offering eligible businesses free, online learning to:

  • develop a digital marketing strategy
  • learn about social media
  • make more of websites
  • use blogging effectively

For more information please email [email protected]

National Apprenticeship Week 8-14 February
The benefits of apprenticeships are being highlighted in this year's National Apprenticeship Week.

A range of events are being held this week, including the National Apprenticeship Show on 10 February, alongside local and regional promotions.

An updated Employers Apprenticeship Toolkit provides a one-stop shop for local businesses. Created by the York & North Yorkshire LEP and local partners, the practical guide explains how apprenticeships bring new skills and support growth.

21 March 2021 is Census Day: Your Business can Help
The census is a once-in-a-decade survey that gives the most accurate estimate of people and households in England and Wales. The data informs government funding decisions, so taking part is important.

Census 2021 will be ‘digital ’, with completion online using a PC, tablet or phone.

Businesses and organisations are being asked to:

  • promote the census to staff, with resources such as social media posts and newsletter articles available at Census 2021, and

  • allow employees needing help to complete their questionnaire at work.

Further information is available from Ruth Dyble, Census Engagement Manager

Coronavirus Grants for Business: Keep Updated
The Government is due to review the national lockdown restrictions in mid-to-late February. It's likely this will include announcements on eligibility for grant funding for businesses.

Following the Government’s announcements the council will review its Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) scheme, and criteria for phase 3. In the meantime, the ARG phase 2 scheme will remain open for applications.

The council's website will be updated with details on all coronavirus grants for businesses as soon as possible.

Businesses that were awarded a coronavirus grant for the November 2020 and / or current lockdown will receive an email about funding by 12 March - there is no need to contact the council.

'Reset. Restart' your Business
Businesses nationwide are invited to join the new Reset. Restart programme, offered by the British Library’s Business & IP Centre.

Developed to support small and medium sized businesses, the monthly webinars offer practical, jargon-free training and advice.

Covering topics from mindset, marketing, finance and new business models, the webinars and one-to-one sessions are free to access.
Covid-19 business grants [email protected]
More news from Business@Harrogate on 24 February 2021