The fund is being administered by Local Authorities and consists of the Small Business Grant Fund and the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant Fund.
The grants are aimed at helping to keep small and medium-sized companies in business and keep productive capacity so that they can recover. Their intention is to:
•Protect jobs
•Prevent business closure
•Promote economic recovery
As of 16 June, over £24 million has been awarded to 2,146 West Lothian businesses since the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
So far a total of 2,505 applications have been received with 2,146 grant payments being paid. A number of the outstanding applications have had to be referred back to the applicant for further information or deferred to the Scottish Government for clarification.
Further information regarding eligibility criteria and how to apply is available via the West Lothian Council https://www.westlothian.gov.uk/business-support-fund
Council Leader Lawrence Fitzpatrick said: "As this uncertain period progresses, the council and its partners will continue to work together to find ways to ensure that any impact is mitigated at a West Lothian level.
"Council officers have worked tirelessly to support our businesses during this uncertain period. Over £24 million has been administered in Business Support Grants to over 2000 local businesses to help mitigate the impact of Covid-19 on the West Lothian economy.
"Support is still available for those who need it but businesses must ensure that they have completed applications submitted by the 10th July."
