On Monday 15th March, the government opened the SME Brexit Support Fund for applications. Over 18,000 UK businesses have already applied for the training or professional advice grant.
With about £20 million available in total, we highly recommend businesses apply as soon as possible to make sure they can get funding. Applications will close on 30th June 2021 and all evidence must be submitted by the end of August. There are no restrictions as to when the training or advice can take place, so you can apply for training later in the year.
Funding is up to £2,000 and must be used to pay for practical support that helps adapt to the new customs and tax rules when trading with the European Union.
More details on both options can be seen below:
The training grant can be used to receive training on how to complete customs declarations, how to manage customs processes and use customs software and systems and any other import and export related aspects including VAT, rules of origin, licences, etc.
The grant for professional advice can be used to receive consultancy advice to enable you to meet your customs, excise, import VAT or safety and security declaration requirements with HMRC.
To check eligibility criteria and to start your application, please see here.
Since we left the European Union, our International Trade team has been supporting businesses adapt to the new rules. To help you make the best use of the grant, we have created packages to allow you to access training and consultancy at best value. To find out more about training available, please see here. Our packages can be found on our website here.
For more information on consultancy, please see here.
We have also launched new courses to cover the key changes faced by businesses as below:
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If you have any questions about this, please email the team at exportbritain@gmchamber.co.uk or call 0161 393 4317.