Funding available for rural businesses in southern Test Valley
Financial help is available for rural businesses in Test Valley Borough and the local Council is encouraging applications, particularly from those in the southern part of the borough before the funding ends.
LEADER is an EU programme designed to support rural businesses with grants worth up to 40% towards capital projects such as buildings, machinery and equipment up to a maximum of £75,000 per application.
Businesses in central Test Valley have already benefited from funding to help with schemes such as converting farm buildings into business units, visitor accommodation and dairy farming equipment.
Economic Development and Tourism Portfolio Holder, Councillor David Drew, said:
“This is a great opportunity for rural businesses. Get in now as the programme runs out early in 2019 and applications need to be submitted as soon as possible to be in with a chance.
“Businesses in central Test Valley have already received significant help from LEADER. However, progress is slower in the south of the borough and I would strongly encourage anyone to find out whether they are eligible. Please go to www.newforestleader.org.uk for more information.”
Test valley is covered by three LEADER programmes: North Wessex Downs, covering Bourne Valley; Loddon and Test, covering central Test Valley; and New Forest, covering rural southern Test Valley.