Business Ventilation Fund

Funding is being made available by the Scottish Government to help small and medium-sized businesses improve their ventilation, and help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Grants of up to £2,500 are available. Support will initially target settings where people come into close contact, such as restaurants, bars and gyms. Visit the Scottish Government website for information.

The Business Ventilation Fund will remain open until 31 March 2022 or when funds are exhausted - whichever occurs first.

The funding is to help pay for work to improve ventilation and air quality. This could include:

  • Installation of carbon dioxide monitors
  • Repairs to windows and vents.

Please note, the Scottish Government has confirmed that the funding cannot be paid retrospectively for work already carried out.

The Business Ventilation Fund, which offers up to £2,500 per eligible premises to help businesses improve ventilation and reduce the spread of COVID-19 will open for applications week commencing 22 November. Please note that the Fund will remain open for applications until 31 March 2022 or until funds are exhausted.

Full details of the application process and eligibility criteria can be found on the Scottish Government website and we have summarised the key details below.

What can be funded?

Costs of carrying out work to improve ventilation and air quality. This could include:

  • installing of carbon dioxide monitors
  • repairs to windows and vents

Full details of individual maximum costs for various eligible items can be found here.

Who is eligible to apply?

Small/medium enterprises in a wide range of sectors/premises are able to apply, this includes:

  • Hospitality venues (cafes, hotels, pubs, restaurants etc.)
  • Tourism venues (hotels, hostels etc.)
  • Indoor entertainment/leisure (cinemas, soft play, gyms, leisure centres, etc.)
  • Music and event venues (including multi-purpose community/function venues)
  • Close contact services (hairdressing, beauty, massage, spa, etc.)
  • Offices

Note that the list of eligible venues/sectors will be considered throughout the lifetime of the Fund. A full current list can be found here.

What is the application process?

Businesses will first be asked to complete an online self-assessment form, which will be hosted on FindBusinessSupport.gov.scot. Those who have identified a need to improve ventilation will then be invited to apply.

Some example scenarios of different business costs/claims are available to help you prepare.

Business support during the coronavirus emergency

Business Gateway East Dunbartonshire and the Council are continuing to offer support to businesses and enterprises affected by the ongoing pandemic.

You can access additional advice and updates by visiting the local business support information hub - www.businessworks.scot

For information on funding sources and support for businesses, visit https://findbusinesssupport.gov.scot/coronavirus-advice and www.gov.uk/business-coronavirus-support-finder

Environmental Health and Trading Standards colleagues are happy to discuss current guidelines with business owners based in the area. The contact details are:

Alternatively, you can call 0300 1234510.

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