Time is running out to apply for Brexit Support Fund
On 15 March 2021 the UK Government opened applications for the Brexit Support Fund.
This is a £20 million fund to help small and medium sized enterprises claim a grant of up to £2,000 for training or professional advice, including from accountants, to adapt to the new customs and tax rules when trading with the European Union.
The funding can be used for training and advice in relation to:
- completing customs declarations
- managing customs processes and the use of customs software and systems
- specific import and export requirementsincluding customs, VAT, excise and rules of origin
- professional advice fees to help businesses understand their obligations in relation to customs, excise, VAT or safety and security declaration
The eligibility criteria is quite strict: the grants are for SME’s with up to 500 employees and a turnover of up to £100 million which have been established for at least 12 months in the UK and which trade between Great Britain and the EU or Northern Ireland.
The grants are not available to agents who sell export services, so are most valuable to small businesses who manage the import and export process themselves.
Applications are only open until 30 June 2021 or until the £20 million fund is used up so we recommend you apply as soon as possible. Further information and details of how to apply can be found here on the GOV.UK website.