Rushcliffe Borough Council (RBC) is now offering grants of up to £5,000 for small high street businesses in Rushcliffe, to help boost their trade by improving their accessibility, energy efficiency, digital presence or shopfronts.
Supported by UK Shared Prosperity Funding (UKSPF), the High Street Small Business Grants can support up to 70% of the cost of projects up to a maximum of £5,000, to further assist those currently trading on local high streets and town centres.
Funding is available for businesses, particularly from the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors, to help support and sustain existing businesses on the high street, improve the appearance and accessibility of premises and encourage businesses to introduce energy saving measures.
Accessibility enhancements include adapting premises for wheelchair access, installing hearing loops for hospitality venues, and making websites more accessible.
Energy efficiency activities include funding to install small-scale measures to reduce energy consumption and costs, for example, LED lighting, improved insulation and upgrades to modern electronic thermostats.
Funding for digital support that will enable improved productivity or efficiency in the business can include the purchase of specialist equipment, and support for growing and improving their digital footprint.
Examples of shopfront improvements include restoration or repair work, replacement of shop front signage, windows or doors, and appropriate lighting to enhance the visual appearance of the high street.
The grant scheme was launched on 1st April and will close once all the funding is allocated. All grants awarded must be claimed before March 2026.
A spokesperson said: ““This funding covers a wide range of initiatives, from improving accessibility to decarbonisation, helping businesses to grow and attract more customers.
“Applications will be assessed on a first come, first served basis and we encourage business owners to contact our economic development team by emailing ukspfenquiries@rushcliffe.gov.uk to find out more and apply.”
For full eligibility and further details on how to apply, visit the Council’s UKSPF webpage at www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/business/supporting-business/uk-shared-prosperity-fund/.