Solent Local Enterprise Partnership sets out first steps for economic recovery post coronavirus
BUSINESSES are being reassured that a recovery can be made after lock
The LEP, which helps determine the priorities of the local economy in support of job creation and driving economic growth for the area, published a strategy to build up the economy again in its annual delivery plan.
It sets out a range initiatives designed to support businesses and mitigate the impact of Covid-19, including a designated Coronavirus Support Hub, providing information and links to support being offered – from grant funding opportunities to specialised advice for individuals, the self-employed, and all sized businesses.
The plan also includes a crowdfunding programme offering grant funding to the self-employed, micro and small businesses, which sees the LEP match crowdfunded finances up to £5,000.
The scheme has already begun and has seen city firms receive thousands of pounds on top of what they have already crowdfunded.
Anne-Marie Mountifield, chief executive at the LEP said: ‘Solent businesses are facing challenges on an unprecedented scale as they respond to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
‘We are under no illusion that, for many, the ability to rise to meet these challenges will be existential and the potential economic impact on our economy cannot be underestimated.
‘As the outbreak continues to escalate, the Solent LEP is fully committed to helping our business communities in their efforts to meet these challenges head-on and are putting in place a range of support for Solent businesses to access.’
The LEP’s chairman, Brian Johnson, said: ‘Whilst the current situation is extremely challenging, the Solent has a history of rising to such challenges. We have weathered storms in the past and we will navigate our way through this.
‘Our economy has faced adversity before and on each occasion, through innovation and entrepreneurialism, our businesses have not only survived but have gone on to thrive and establish the area as a powerful £31bn economy with a significance that extends far beyond our own boundaries.
‘With this in mind, the Solent LEP is committed to supporting businesses beyond the short-term response to the Covid-19 pandemic and will be preparing a recovery plan for our economy through 2020 and beyond.’
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