Boscombe Traders Grant: Empowering Local Businesses To Thrive

Traders grant applications are now open!

Starting on 1st September, the Boscombe Traders Grant is back with a renewed focus on enhancing the vibrancy and appeal of Boscombe High Street and its surrounding areas. If you're a trader or charity operating in the Boscombe High Street area, this grant could be the key to unlocking new opportunities for your business. With 45 grants of £2,000 each available between 2023 and 2026, there's never been a better time to invest in your business.

What is the Boscombe Traders Grant?

The Boscombe Traders Grant is a funding initiative designed to support local businesses in the Boscombe area. Over the course of three years, the program will award a total of 45 grants, each worth £2,000, to help businesses make improvements that will enhance the overall appeal of Boscombe High Street and its surroundings. Recognising the diverse needs of businesses, the grant allows for a wide range of initiatives, from external improvements to internal refurbishments.

Due to popular demand, the grant's eligibility area has been expanded for 2024. Traders on Christchurch Road, between The Crescent and Woodland Walk, and the pedestrianised section of Sea Road, are now eligible to apply. This extension opens up more opportunities for businesses to benefit from this scheme and contribute to the revitalisation of Boscombe.

How can the Grant help your business?

If you're looking to make small but impactful changes to your business, the Boscombe Traders Grant can provide the financial support you need. Here are some examples of what the grant can be used for:

Outdoor Seating: Create an inviting outdoor space for your customers to enjoy, perfect for cafes and restaurants.
Canopies: Protect your customers from the elements and enhance the aesthetic appeal of your storefront.
Signage: Improve visibility and attract more customers with updated or new signage.
Lighting: Brighten up your premises, making it more welcoming and safer for evening trade.
Print Runs: Update your menus, brochures, or marketing materials to reflect your latest offerings.
Staffing: Hire additional staff to meet growing demand or extend your service hours.
Licensing for Late Night Opening: If you're considering extending your opening hours, the grant can help cover licensing costs.
Internal Redecoration: Refresh your interior to provide a better experience for your customers and staff

These are just a few examples; the grant is flexible enough to accommodate a wide range of projects aimed at enhancing your business.

Who can apply?

To be eligible for the Boscombe Traders Grant, you must be a registered trader or a registered charity operating within the designated grant zone. This includes the expanded area of Christchurch Road and the pedestrianised section of Sea Road. Each business can apply for up to two grants over the three-year period, allowing you to plan and execute improvements at your own pace.

How to apply?

Applying for the Boscombe Traders Grant is a straightforward process, but it's important to prepare a strong application to increase your chances of success. Here's what you need to include:

A clear description of your proposed initiative: Detail what improvements you plan to make and how they will benefit both your business and the broader Boscombe High Street area.
A budget breakdown: Provide an estimate of the costs involved in your project and how the grant will be utilised.
Supporting materials: Include any relevant documents, such as quotes, design plans, or marketing materials, to support your application.

The grants will be awarded to the best and most appropriate initiatives, so it's essential to demonstrate how your project will contribute to the overall improvement of the area.

To apply for the traders grant you can send an email to [email protected] or you can complete the Boscombe traders application form.

If your application is successful, an award letter containing grant award conditions will be sent to you. The award letter should be signed and returned within one month of the date on the letter.

For full details on applying for a traders grants and to find out what exactly is involved, please visit bcpcouncil.gov.uk/campaigns-and-programmes/towns-fund/boscombe-trader-grants