New business programmes promoting vibrancy in Belfast

Belfast businesses to benefit from two programmes developed in response to Covid-19 challenges

Expressions of interest are being sought for two pilot programmes aimed at promoting vibrancy in Belfast, developed in response to challenges experienced by businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Vacant to Vibrant Capital Grant Scheme

The Vacant to Vibrant Capital Grant Scheme aims to incentivise both property owners and potential occupiers (including start-up retail, independents, SMEs, social enterprise, leisure, hospitality and the cultural and third sectors) to bring vacant spaces in Belfast city centre back into use and support revitalisation.

The scheme aims to improve individual properties, contribute to higher quality streetscapes and greater city centre vibrancy, sustain jobs and help create new employment opportunities.

The deadline for expressions of interest is 16:00 on Monday 28 February 2022.

Read more on the Vacant to Vibrant Capital Grant Scheme.

Supporting Vibrant Business Destinations

Supporting Vibrant Business Destinations is a partnership with the Department for Communities, and will offer support to business groups that wish to set up a new, constituted business association or re-energise existing business associations that have been inactive.

Following successful completion of an expression of interest, business groups will be supported to develop an area-based action plan and have the opportunity to apply for funding up to a maximum of £40,000.

Expressions of interest will be accepted until May 2023 for this programme.

Read more on Supporting Vibrant Business Destinations.

First published 1 February 2022