Cork County Council is now accepting applications from local businesses for the Restart Grant Plus. This scheme builds upon the previous Restart Grant Scheme by increasing the minimum grant from €2,000 to €4,000 and increasing the maximum from €10,000 to €25,000.
Eligibility has also expanded, with applications open to companies employing up to 250 eligible compared to less than 50 in the previous scheme, non-rateable B&B’s, Sports clubs with commercial activities and trading charity shops are also now eligible. Businesses that availed of the previous Restart Grant from Cork County Council do not need to reapply and will be contacted over the coming days.
The Restart Grant Plus was announced by Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar T.D. as part of the government’s July Stimulus package, a €7.4bn package of measures designed to stimulate a jobs-led recovery and build economic confidence while continuing to manage the impact of Covid-19. This announcement sees €300m additional funding on top of the €250m previously committed to the Restart Grant Scheme.
Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley said
“Small and medium businesses are an integral part of life in County Cork and I’m delighted to see these additional supports being made available. There are so many businesses throughout our towns and villages that shape our local identity and character, and provide fantastic services to residents and visitors alike. I encourage all businesses in Cork to look into this grant scheme, so that we can continue to lead way in our social and economic recovery.”
Deputy Chief Executive of Cork County Council James Fogarty added
“Cork County Council welcomes this new and improved suite of supports for businesses, which will increase employment and support businesses in adapting to the current situation. By providing jobs and accessible local options for goods and services in Cork County, the Restart Grant Plus will have a resounding impact on our local economy and play a vital role in the Council’s Project ACT initiative to Activate County Towns.”
Applications for the Restart Grant can be made online at www.YourCouncil.ie. Cork County Council has also established a dedicated helpline on (021) 4208000 and email at RestartFund@CorkCoCo.ie.
