SCC responds to announcement of a discretionary fund for small businesses

Commenting on the government’s announcement at the weekend (2 May) of a discretionary fund for small businesses that have previously been outside the scope of the business grant funds scheme, Suffolk Chamber’s Chief Executive said:

“Since the start of the Coronavirus/COVID-19 lockdown, we have been calling for additional support for businesses who for whatever reason, have fallen through the gaps of existing support. Many firms are still struggling and the thought of taking on debt via a loan is often not an appealing option.

“The news of a discretionary fund is most welcome, and it will help many businesses across Suffolk. These funds will be vital for businesses who were probably counting the days and weeks they had left, rather than months. This is another win for the chamber network and we’re delighted that our policy and lobbying work is paying off”.

“We will now await further details from local authority colleagues, so that we can work with them to ensure cash reaches the front line as soon as possible”.

More information on the government’s scheme can be found here