A crowdfunding campaign launched by Enfield Council to help small and micro businesses in the borough has raised nearly £17,000, edging closer to its final target.
The aim of the Small Business Hardship Fund is to encourage larger businesses, whose circumstances allow, to make a donation to smaller and micro businesses who may be struggling as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and who have not benefited from existing government support measures.
Many businesses have already made significant contributions to the fund including: Fairview New Homes Limited, Metaswitch, Uniper, JJ Foodservice, London Communications Agency and Bestway Wholesale Limited. The aim is to raise around £27,000.
Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance and Procurement, Cllr Mary Maguire, said: “The money raised will go directly to those who meet our criteria and who are most at risk, to ensure they get the support, help and advice they need during this difficult period and keep families out of poverty.”
Enfield has a small and vibrant business economy. More than 90 per cent of the borough’s businesses fall within the category of small to medium enterprises, often employing staff who are local residents.
Many SMEs have had to close their doors for various reasons. For example, they have witnessed a sharp drop in trade; isolation rules have meant they cannot adequately staff their premises; or changes in safety criteria have made them unsustainable.
Cllr Maguire added: “Enfield has a wide range of local, independent businesses. They deserve our support so they can get back on their feet and continue to make valuable contributions to their communities. With further rules coming into play, including a 10pm closing time for those in the hospitality sector, businesses will continue to face reduced revenues. Supporting our campaign will help these Enfield businesses and secure their futures.”
Cllr Maguire features in a video that explains the concept in further detail. You can watch the Small Business Hardship Fund Film on YouTube. If you are a business that can make a contribution, please visit the Spacehive Crowdfunding page.