Eight businesses are being boosted by funding to help them grow.

The grants, between £500 and £1,500, have been handed out by Lichfield District Council.

The successful firms are based in Lichfield, Burntwood, Wall and Armitage.

The money, which will be match-funded by each of the businesses, is set to be spent on various items, including a projector and screen, label machines, IT equipment, exhibition stands, marketing literature and professional training.  

The second round for applications into the small business grants fund will close on 22nd February. The third round will open following this date, and small businesses will have a further chance to apply for a grant by the deadline of 31st May.

Companies will need to outline their business expansion plan, how the grant will help achieve this, and how the grant will be used to support business growth and create jobs. 

Councillor Ian Pritchard, Cabinet member for economic growth, environment and development services, said: “We had some great applications from a whole range of new and start-up businesses from across the district.

“It’s fantastic to be able to award them a small grant, which should help them to establish themselves and boost their businesses.

“We will be offering small grants to local businesses every four months over the next two financial years, and have set aside a total of £20,000 each year as part of the scheme.

“We look forward to receiving the applications and finding out more about plans for future growth.”

In each funding round there will be a total of £5,000 to be distributed.

To be eligible, applicants must first receive 12 hours of free business support from Enterprise for Success programme, before the council can assess their grant application. To find out more visit www.enterpriseforsuccess.co.uk.

The scheme is open to small businesses based in Lichfield district with up to ten employees that have been trading for no more than three years. It is also open to residents who are planning to open a business in the district.

To register your interest in applying for funding and to find out about the process, contact Jonathan Percival by emailing [email protected] or calling 01543 308149. For the full eligibility criteria and to find out more visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/sbg.

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.