€10,000 available to Kilkenny businesses to get back on feet post Covid-19 lockdown

Small and medium sized enterprises across Kilkenny are being urged to apply for a business restart grant that could save hundreds of jobs across the county, kick-starting the county’s revival post pandemic.

The government has launched a new €250m Restart Grant, which will give direct grant aid to help them with the costs associated with reopening and reemploying workers following COVID-19 closures.

The grant is aimed specifically at companies which have 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 30, 2020.

Kilkenny Fine Gael TD, John Paul Phelan commenting on the announcement of the grant said: “It is a contribution towards the cost of re-opening or keeping a business operational and re-connecting with employees and customers.

“The grants will be equivalent to the rates bill of the business in 2019, with a minimum payment of €2,000 and a maximum payment of €10,000.”

“I am acutely aware of the difficulties facing small businesses in Kilkenny during these challenging times. The Restart Grant is designed to help these businesses get back on their feet. The grant can be used to defray ongoing fixed costs, for replenishing stock and for measures needed to ensure employee and customer safety.

“Small businesses, whether it be the local hairdresser, café or clothes shop, are absolutely vital to the social fabric of our towns and villages throughout Kilkenny.

“In response to the very significant economic challenges posed by Covid-19, the Government has moved swiftly to introduce a range of measures to support enterprises of all sizes.

“These measures have included supports for wage costs, liquidity supports and the deferral or waiver of payments.

“The Restart Grant will further help to support activity and employment across the city and county,” Deputy Phelan concluded.

Applications for the Restart Grant can be made online to Kilkenny County Council from Friday, May 22.