New support grant now available to small Kilkenny businesses

Small businesses affected by the pandemic can now apply for a new support scheme.

Kilkenny County Council this week announced that the expanded Small Business Assistance Scheme Covid (SBASC) is now open for applications on-line through its website. The closing date for applications is July 21.

Phase 2 of the scheme was expanded to include businesses that had previously been ineligible and covers the period April 1 to June 30 of this year.

Businesses working from non-rateable premises are now eligible to apply, subject to other eligibility criteria and can receive grants of between €1,000 or €4,000, depending on their turnover.

Companies with a turnover between €20,000 and €49,999 are also now eligible to apply subject to other eligibility criteria and will receive a grant of €1,000.

SBASC gives grants to businesses who are not eligible for the Government’s Covid Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS), the Fáilte Ireland Business Continuity grant or other direct sectoral grant schemes. This scheme aims to help businesses with their fixed costs, for example, rent, utility bills, security.

The leader of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Andrew McGuinness, said: “With the economy now moving through phased reopening SBASC Phase 2 will be an important element in supporting small business with fixed costs.  The scheme will assist small businesses that are not eligible for CRSS or other sector specific grants and down 75% or more of turnover.

“The scheme has also been extended to include non-rate paying businesses such as home offices.  I would urge businesses who meet the qualifying criteria to avail of this financial support to assist in their reopening over the coming months.”

Full details of the scheme, Frequently Asked Questions and links to application forms are available on-line at www.kilkennycoco.ie. Queries can be directed to the SBASC Team by phone on 056 779 4209 or by email at sbasc@kilkennycoco.ie