As towns and villages continue to reopen, with many businesses now kicking into gear, Cork County Council is calling on businesses to avail of a fund which can assist with their reopening costs following Covid-19 closures.
The Restart Grant, available as part of the Governments package of supports, is a €250m fund which gives direct grant aid to micro and small businesses to help them with the costs associated with reopening and re-employing workers.
The grant can be used to defray ongoing fixed costs, for replenishing stock and for measures needed to ensure employee and customer safety.
As Cork County Council continues its countywide reactivation programme, Project ACT, it is encouraging small local businesses to avail of this grant, one of a range of supports available to help them reopen, adapt and kick start the economy.
The call comes as the initial first round of approved applications have been processed, with payments made last week.
Economic recovery
Following news that almost 2,000 businesses across the county have made online applications for the grant to date, Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey commented: “It has been our experience that the talent, innovation and resilience of local businesses in Cork has had a positive effect on communities, providing economic stimulation, employment and a sense of pride.
“The Restart Grant and the wide range of services available from the Council’s Local Enterprise Offices will aid in the economic recovery of the entire community of County Cork.
“Many businesses may find themselves struggling due to the impact of the Covid-19 epidemic, I strongly encourage them to apply to this fund and avail of the resources available from Cork County Council to support local businesses.”
Certain conditions
The Restart Grant makes between €2,000 and €10,000 of direct aid available to businesses based on the 2019 commercial rates bill.
The grant will be available to businesses with a turnover of less than €5m and employing 50 people or less, which were closed or impacted by at least a 25% reduction in turnover out to June 30th, 2020.
Applications for the Restart Grant can be submitted online at www.yourcouncil.ie
Cork County Council has established a dedicated helpline on 021 4208000, queries may also be made by email to RestartFund@CorkCoCo.ie
