MSDC to launch £300,000 grant support for the local community and businesses

Mid Sussex District Council will award £300,000 in grants to local businesses, community groups and voluntary organisations affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

The new Covid-19 Recovery Grant Fund was formally approved at a meeting of the Council’s Cabinet Grants Panel on Monday 19 October.

The coronavirus pandemic has created a challenging environment for local businesses, community groups and voluntary organisations. Many were not able to benefit from national Government grants and need additional support to help them adapt to the changing environment and shape their services for the future.

Mid Sussex District Council grants of £1,000 to £5,000, will be available to help local businesses and organisations through the Covid-19 crisis.

Councillor Norman Webster, Cabinet Member for Community said:

“The coronavirus pandemic and the resulting lockdown measures have taken their toll on the resilience of our local community groups and voluntary organisations. Many have incurred unexpected costs or lost significant revenue because they have been unable to generate income or carry out fundraising activities as they would normally.

“This new £300,000 grant fund is in addition to our regular grants programme and will help local organisations to adapt to the current restrictions and develop new ways of working in the future.”
Councillor Stephen Hillier, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth added:

“Whilst the economy of Mid Sussex is resilient the impact of Covid-19 has severely tested the business landscape and many of our residents whose jobs are at risk. The Covid-19 Recovery Grant will ensure local businesses are offered the technical and financial support which helps them adapt to the new operating environment and to ensure sustainable businesses maximise opportunities to thrive, grow and provide job opportunities for our residents.

“The financial impact of Covid-19 has been horrendous for everyone, including this Council. Our decision to provide support funding, at a time we ourselves are struggling, shows just how committed Mid Sussex District Council is to supporting local organisations and protecting our local communities.”

The Covid-19 Recovery Grant Fund is available to help in three key areas:

Emergency Response – Financial help with the additional costs that are incurred whilst operating under Covid-19 restrictions

Return to Pre-Covid Provision – A grant to local groups and businesses to help them reopen, and return to business as usual in a way that is Covid-19 secure

New Service or Business Innovation – Financial support to help local businesses and support organisations adapt to new ways of working

The application period opens on 30 October and closes on 30 November. The grant awards will be determined at a meeting of the Council’s Cabinet Grants Panel on 14 December.