Grow Kent B2B

West Kent funding opportunities for small businesses

The Escalate scheme has recently made £5.5 million available to micro and small businesses in West Kent and is part of the Government’s Regional Growth Fund. The aim of the scheme is to offer interest free loans to businesses that are experiencing growth and need funding to help them develop further and create new jobs.

The Regional Growth Fund 

The Regional Growth Fund was created by Government to help regional businesses and economies expand. So far, over £1 billion has been made available with around 3,500 firms benefiting from the funding. Aiming to help local businesses protect or create jobs, build on creativity and strengthen their business through investment, the scheme invites local businesses to apply for the fund via their local scheme.

The West Kent Partnership looks after the Escalate fund for the area around the A21 corridor, it hopes to create around 1,250 new jobs in the area through around 150 companies. With business finance still a major issue for many small and micro businesses the programme is looking to support those businesses that are growing, but may be struggling to find the means to accelerate as quickly as they want.

First business receives support

Great news then for DotImpact, who are the first business to receive funding from the Escalate programme. Established to support SME’s that want to increase their online presence but don’t have the budget or expertise to do so, DotImpact is a full service marketing agency that offers a range of services from website design, email marketing, social media & SEO, digital marketing strategies to traditional branding design and print. Amanda Robinson, MD, of DotImpact commented, “Now we have the support of the Escalate fund, our plan is to create employment opportunities within the business with the aim to help further SMEs in Kent achieve their growth potential”

West Kent B2B offering advice and tips on applications

The West Kent B2B on the 30th April at the River Centre in Tonbridge, is backed by the West Kent Partnership. On the day there will be opportunities to hear more about the Escalate programme and how your business could benefit from its’ funding solutions. The event is free to attend and along with local and county-wide exhibitors there is a fantastic programme of key-note speakers and workshops - all with a definite slant to the small business sector. If you pre-register there is also the opportunity to gain free advertising for your business via the on-site screens and a welcome coffee as well. 

To find out more and how to register your place click here.