New business support programme goes on trial

24 September 2008

Government plans to introduce a new, simplified system of business support are being piloted through a select number of local authorities.

The Business Support Simplification Programme (BSSP) was announced during the Budget 2006. The aim is to reduce the number of publicly funded business support schemes from over 3,000 to less than 100 by 2010.

The current proliferation of support schemes, including grants, subsidies and advice, are being streamlined into one national portfolio in order to make it easier and quicker for businesses to access them.

The local authorities that are piloting the new programme include Croydon Council, Newham Council, Cornwall Country Council, Lincolnshire County Council, Nottingham City Council, Tees Valley Group of Councils and the Thames Gateway Kent Partnership.

Business Minister, Shriti Vadera said: “Businesses need grass-roots support that is easy to understand and easy to access. This is what business tells us they want, and we will deliver it. We are working closely with local authorities and RDAs to ensure businesses experience a seamless transition.”