Perthshire North MSP, Mr John Swinney, has today welcomed news that a £100 million package of additional grant support for small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) and newly self-employed people will open for applications later today.

The three separate funds, which will be administered by local authorities and Scotland’s enterprise agencies, will begin to pay out grants in early May. They include a £34 million hardship fund for the newly self-employed, a £20 million fund for small and micro enterprises in the creative, tourism and hospitality sectors and £45 million for viable SMEs crucial to the Scottish economy.

Commenting, Mr Swinney said:

“This is good news for businesses across Perthshire, and will offer further peace of mind to those who have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It is particularly noteworthy that we will now be able to help the newly self-employed who do not qualify for the UK Government’s scheme and are currently facing financial hardship.

“It is also important to recognise the impact of COVID-19 on our creative, tourism and hospitality sectors at what would normally be their busiest period. This funding seeks to relieve the hardship faced by smaller firms that were ineligible for other forms of support.

“The Scottish Government will continue to listen to businesses in Perthshire and across the country, as we aim to ensure that help is given to as many businesses as possible.”