23 November 2021

This week’s update covers:

  • Applications for Business Ventilation Fund in Scotland
  • Apprentice grant deadline – final call
  • Chance for you to be UKs best small business
  • COVID-19 guidance

Applications for Business Ventilation Fund in Scotland

In September, the First Minister announced the establishment of a £25 million fund to help improve ventilation in business premises and reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. This fund is now open for applications.

Small and medium-sized businesses, including those in the close contact sector, will be able to claim back costs of up to £2,500 to undertake work such as installing carbon dioxide monitors and remedial improvement work to windows and vents.

Businesses will be able to fill in a self-assessment form to receive advice on improving their current ventilation systems and identify if they are eligible for financial support from their local authority.

Effective ventilation is a key public health measure to reduce the risk of COVID-19 spreading and is of increasing importance during autumn and winter as people spend more time indoors.

You can find more information on the grants and eligibility on the Find Business Support website.


Apprentice grant deadline – final call

Any employer in England who hired an apprentice between 1 April and 30 September 2021 has until 30 November to claim the £3,000 incentive payment for each eligible apprentice. For further information. 


Chance for you to be UKs best small business

The FSB Celebrating Small Business Awards is the largest event of its kind in the small business calendar. It showcases the remarkable successes, creativity and resilience of the community over the last year.

This is your chance opportunity to show your business to a panel of leading business experts and gain national exposure for your business in the press and across social media.

The 12 diverse categories, including Community business of the Year, Young Entrepreneur of the Year, and Wellbeing Award.

Find out more.


COVID-19 guidance

Read our four nations’ FAQs which include links to the latest government guidance that must be followed.

Members can call our membership team, Monday-Friday, 9-5, on 01234 831965. Please be patient due to the extremely high level of calls we are currently getting.

For legal advice, Members can login to get our 24/7 legal helpline number. Again, please be patient. The legal team is also dealing with a considerable number of calls.