Waterford Council rolls out new support grants for local businesses
The Three Shippes, Williams St.
Waterford City and County Council (WCCC) has announced a new range of economic supports for independent small businesses, investors and entrepreneurs.
Business owners, property owners and start-ups based in the Déise can apply under the Economic Incentive Scheme (EIS) and the Urban Façade Improvement Scheme (UFIS).
The schemes are aimed at re-vitalising the look, character and facade of both the rural and urban parts of Waterford.
Local businesses like The Three Shippes and The Little Lane Bookshop have availed of the schemes to create their own vibrant character.
With the UFIS scheme, applicants can receive support to improve the look and overall character of their property.
Under the scheme, applicants could receive up to '50% grant aid, to a maximum of €2,000 funding for façade and upper-floor improvements and support aimed at upgrading vacant or visually tired premises.'
With the EIS scheme, applicants could receive up to three years’ commercial rates relief, to a maximum of €5,000 per annum, and a start-up grant of €6,000 over three years. They can also avail of additional supports, including mentoring, marketing assistance and sustainability advice.
Senior Executive Officer with Economic Development at WCCC Gareth Evans said: "Waterford City and County Council is pleased to announce details of the Economic Support Schemes as we continue working with businesses, property owners and investors to bring vacant and underutilised properties back into productive use.
"The Urban Façade Improvement Scheme has the potential to boost the vibrancy of Waterford’s towns and villages, and create a more attractive, inviting environment for residents, visitors, and shoppers to enjoy, while the Economic Incentive Scheme supports the occupation of vacant commercial properties, attracts new businesses, strengthens local economies and creates more vibrant places to live, work and visit.”
More information about the schemes can be found on the Waterford City and County Council website.
