Changes to Growth Vouchers opens further eligibility

Lord Young has announced changes to the Growth Vouchers scheme that will mean more businesses will be eligible for this funding opportunity. Due to the popular nature of the programme, Growth Vouchers will now be available to any business that is actively trading, has fewer than 250 employees, is based in England and has a turnover of less than €50m. This means that businesses that previously could not apply may now be eligible.

This fantastic development means that more businesses will now have access to £2,000 match funding available to finance strategic business advice and reap the benefits that this brings. More than 240,000 businesses in England use external advice and 94% of those using advice have seen benefits.

The five advice areas remain the same; finance and cash flow, recruiting and developing staff, improving leadership and management skills, marketing, attracting and keeping customers and making the most of digital technology. The initiative will continue to be promoted through networking events, via social media and now via national press and radio too.

Growth Vouchers are part of a Random Control Trial research initiative being run by Government until at least March 2015. The first research initiative of this scope to be run in the UK, the project will inform future Government policies to ensure funding is targeted to achieve business growth. Enterprise First is proud to be delivering this scheme which places advice choice in the hands of business.

To apply for Growth Vouchers visit www.gov.uk/apply-growth-vouchers

For more information visit www.cavendishconsortium.co.uk/gv or contact sheryl.tipton@enterprisefirst.co.uk

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