Hounslow Council is to expand the financial support available to businesses affected by the pandemic.

The council, which has already paid out around £70m in Business Grants during the pandemic, has been contacting business owners in the borough over recent weeks to encourage them to apply sooner rather than later, as some grants have limited funding and will be awarded on a first come, first served basis.

But many businesses in Hounslow are yet to come forward to benefit from the financial support on offer.

For one grant, the council is aware of approximately 250 potentially eligible businesses which have not yet applied. The 'Local Restrictions Grant (closed) Addendum' Grant will close on Monday 31 May, so businesses only have the Bank Holiday weekend left to apply online.

Cllr Shantanu Rajawat, London Borough of Hounslow's Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Services, said: "We know COVID-19 is continuing to have a huge impact on local businesses and we're doing everything we can to help business owners to get back on track.

"Even if you haven't received a grant previously, we may be able to help you. So please don't delay and apply as soon as possible."

Businesses can find out if they are eligible for a grant by visiting: www.hounslow.gov.uk/covid-business-grants

Deadlines looming to apply

The opportunity to apply for the 'Additional Restrictions Grant', or for a business to make contact if they have missed out on previous Grants, will close on 7 June.

Anyone who has already made an application or been in touch about those particular grants is currently having their case reviewed.

Other grants such as the 'Re-Start Grant' and 'Business Continuity Grant' will remain open for applications for a short period beyond 7 June and closing date details will be updated via the website soon.

The council is also encouraging local business owners to sign up to its business support e-newsletterhere(select the Business Support option when prompted) to keep up to date with all the latest news on business grants.

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