New recovery grants to help small business reopen in a post-COVID world

Thousands of small businesses reopening across the State after the COVID-19 shutdown will benefit from funding of up to $3000 under a new Small Business Recovery Grant.

Applications will open on July 1 to help businesses safely relaunch their operations with funds remaining from the $750 million Small Business Support Fund.

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet announced the new recovery grants today after delivering an economic update to the NSW Parliament as the Government moves from response to a “Recovery and Reform” footing.

“Our collective prosperity has always been built on hard work, and creating jobs is the number one priority of the NSW Government,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Today we signal to the people of NSW a shift in direction, from response to recovery. It’s time to get the show back on the road. Keeping people in jobs and businesses in business is at the heart of everything we are doing.”

Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said the new grants signalled a move from business survival to business revival.

“The existing grant program has proven very popular, with around 35,000 businesses receiving relief to cover expenses such as rates and phone bills,” Mr Dominello said.

“Applying for this new grant will be simple and easy, so businesses can focus on reopening safely and welcoming back customers.”

The $10,000 Small Business Support Grant closes on June 30 and so far more than 49,700 businesses have applied for the grants worth more than $490 million.

Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope said the new grants would help businesses turn their lights on, open their doors and welcome back customers and clients.

“We are getting NSW back to business by helping entrepreneurs and mum and dad owners to relaunch and revitalise their businesses,” Mr Tudehope said.

“The grants can be used to cover marketing and advertising expenses, make fit-out changes and train staff in how to work safely under the current health conditions.

“Small business owners can also get advice from Business Connect advisors to help them innovate, pivot or take advantage of opportunities in the market.

“We know when we support small business, we create jobs and we support our broader economy.”

Business NSW chief executive Stephen Cartwright said: “Small business owners across the State have done it tough during the pandemic, with many impacted by bushfires and drought prior to that. Many have had to lay off staff and are struggling to just survive.

“They will certainly appreciate this new support package from the Government as they ramp up their operations following hibernation.

“Business NSW will be encouraging all of our member businesses to apply for the grant as it will help to kick start their operations, re-engage staff and allow them to get back to the ‘new normal’,” Mr Cartwright said.

The Small Business Recovery Grant can only be used for expenses from July 1 and where no other Government support is available.