Portsmouth City Council relaunches small business grant to support local business growth

Local business owner Pauline Genevet stood in front of a small white van

Portsmouth City Council have announced the second round of the Portsmouth Match Fund which is a continuation of the fund that has already helped local businesses to start and grow. This grant along with business support from the Council and partners is designed to help new business startups and existing small businesses to grow.

The new Portsmouth Match Fund will fund eligible Portsmouth businesses between 20-50% (minimum amount of £1,500 and maximum amount of £4,000) towards a growth or start up project. Ideal business development costs could fund a new digital platform, e-commerce development, new product development, purchase of new equipment or training.

This grant is a council initiative funded from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. To date £24,000 in total has been granted to 7 small businesses in Portsmouth. One of these businesses was Cosham based Pauline Macarons who purchased a van.

Pauline Genevet owner of Pauline Macarons said “Receiving the grant enabled me to purchase a van for my macarons business, transforming how I operate. With the van, I can now easily store and transport my products to multiple markets, ensuring they arrive fresh and in perfect condition, while reaching more customers than ever before.’

Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of the Council with responsibility for economic development said “I’m thrilled to announce the return of the Portsmouth Match Fund for a second round. This grant offers a wonderful opportunity for local businesses to invest in their growth and innovation. By providing financial support, we’re empowering our businesses to thrive and strengthen our local economy.”

Applications are open to start up and small businesses in Portsmouth and must be submitted by Sunday 27th October.

For more information and to apply for the Portsmouth Match Fund visit portsmouth.gov.uk/match-fund

Shaping Portsmouth