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Budding entrepreneurs in West Somerset could qualify for a financial helping hand, up to £400, from West Somerset Council to help turn their ideas into commercial reality.  

Existing small businesses (less than 10 employees) with ideas to make their enterprise more competitive or increase sales or customer contact are also eligible.

The grants are up to 50% of the project costs and can be used towards helping to make a new business a success or raising the profile and profitability of an existing one. This could include a grant towards marketing, for example brand design, producing new marketing materials and web development, a contribution towards new equipment or, in some cases, redecoration to improve the look of business premises.

The grant will not cover normal running costs, such as business rates, employees’ pay, utility bills, rent payments or general costs of advertising.

For those interested in applying simply complete the application form and email to[email protected] or post to Gordon Dwyer, West Somerset Council, Killick Way, Williton, TA4 4QA. 

If you would like to talk through your idea to check eligibility before completing an application form then please ring Gordon Dwyer on 01984 635219.

The deadline for applications to this Small Business Grants pot is 9.00am on Wednesday 18 March 2015 – so the advice is to get the forms filled in and submitted as soon as possible. 

West Somerset Council aims to notify all applicants of the outcome of their applications by 31 March 2015.

Please note that Businesses located in Minehead and Alcombe are not eligible to apply to this fund. Please refer to the alternative scheme for these areas at www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk/mineheadresiliencegrant