It goes without saying the bushfires and drought, and now coronavirus have had a devastating impact on local businesses.
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But, did you know that help was still available for business owners who have experienced a significant drop in revenue as a result of the bushfires.
Since the State government small business support grant scheme was launched more than 245 local business operators have received grants of up to $10,000.
Eligible businesses must have experienced a 40 per cent drop in revenue over a three-month period, compared to the previous year, because of the recent bushfires, MidCoast Council liveable communities director, Paul De Szell said.
"I encourage small businesses that have experienced a decline in revenue due to the recent bushfires to contact Service NSW to apply," he said.
"Prior funding has focused primarily on businesses directly impacted by the bushfires, but this grant also provides much needed financial support to those who have been indirectly affected by the bushfires and lost business as a result.
I encourage small businesses that have experienced a decline in revenue due to the recent bushfires to contact Service NSW to apply.
- Paul De Szell
"The application process for this grant has been simplified so eligible small businesses can access funds as quickly as possible.
"You can do it online in less than five minutes. You can do it from your phone. You don't have to upload documents. And business owners are reporting seeing the cash in their accounts within a couple of days."
The grant may be used for, but is not limited to:
- Meeting standard business costs, including utilities, salaries and rent;
- Seeking financial advice to support the recovery of the business;
- Adjusting the business to be viable in the changed local context following the bushfires;
- Developing the business and extending business reach through marketing and communications activities, or
- Improvements to make the business more resilient to future disasters.
"The NSW Government estimates that 20,000 small businesses will be eligible for this grant," Mr Se Szell said.
"There are approximately 6000 businesses in the Mid Coast local government area.
"We're happy to hear that 246 have already received the small business support grant, but we'd like to see more businesses benefit.
To apply for a $10,000 small business grant, call Service NSW on 13 77 88 or visit Service NSW grants and loans page HERE.
Small businesses who have received assistance under other grants or initiatives may also be eligible for this grant.
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