Agreement relating to the administration of the Additional Restrictions Grant funding to London Borough of Barnet to provide direct business grants and wider business support

To deliver clear economic impact and outcomes by supporting Barnet micro-businesses which have been negatively affected by the impact of COVID-19. Middlesex was appointed based on inter-authority agreement between two public sector contracting authorities. Micro-businesses in Barnet will benefit from a support programme worth £476,000 that includes: Quantitative and qualitative research for up to 500 businesses to understand business needs, post-pandemic aspirations and current constraints in attending business growth training. As well as understanding business perceptions of Barnet as a place to start, run and grow a business and the role of the council. Data will include respondent businesses from each ward of the borough and specific growth sectors: workspaces, professional and financial services, health and social care, arts and culture/evening economy; Short courses for up to 100 businesses that support the growth of micro-businesses by helping business owners (and senior managers) develop their business skills, commercial awareness and entrepreneurial mindset; Six-week graduate placements for up to 50 companies that have completed the short courses. Placements will provide additional capacity and skills needed to help embed the benefits of the training into business operations. Graduates and business hosts are to be matched based on business needs and graduate skills and experience.

Department: Growth & Corporate