Whether you’re a new or an established business, through our Business Start-Up Support programme and Cumbria Business Growth Hub we have a 40% part funded subsidy which can be used for consultancy support.
So what does consultancy support cover? It could include, for example:
- Cyber security support to ensure systems are robust and in place to ensure protection from any threat plus accreditations
- Marketing support including campaign development, design of promotional materials and adverts, marketing planning activities – we just can’t fund printing costs
- Website development, amends, search engine optimisation, videos/images, online selling platform, CRM development
- HR support
- Legal support
- Accountancy support including business planning & financial forecasting
- ISO accreditations
- SALSA accreditations
- Planning application, architectural support
Basically, any project which requires outside consultancy will be considered.
The BSUS subsidy is 40% up to £2,000 and the Growth Hub is 40% up to £4,000. Both have a minimum project spend of £2,500, of which we would pay £1,000. The subsidy is only to be used for new projects, not ones that are already underway.
All you need is a simple 3 page application form and three comparable quotes. You decide who does the work. Project deadlines are usually no longer than 3 months but can be extended if the project can’t be completed in the timescale given.
Once the project has been completed you need to send in a certified invoice for the total amount, a certified invoice for the outstanding balance and a certified bank statement showing your contribution has been paid – we then pay the supplier directly the balance approved.
You can complete the whole process on your own or choose to work with a business adviser who can provide up to 3 hours of support.
We do have eligibility criteria for both schemes but please don’t be put off getting in touch as there are flexibilities which can be applied.
To find out more email info@cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk