Community-focussed firms across Sussex offered five figure funding boost

Businesses keen to support their local communities could receive a funding boost.

Through Social Enterprise Assist, firms with a commitment to reinvesting profits back into their local areas can bid for part of a £150,000 pot.

The winners will be able to apply for an interest free loan of between £10,000 and £30,000, as well as receiving mentoring and access to a bank of experts.

It is part of government-backed scheme that connects local social enterprises with larger companies with the hope of injecting prosperity into local communities.

The scheme was piloted last year.

Among the firms to benefit included Amy and Ruth Anslow, who were able to open the doors of their local ethical supermarket, hiSbe in York Place, Brighton.

Others included a creative writing group, a parent support group and a community IT consultancy.

Businesses have until April 10 to apply.

Funding has been provided by Coast2Capital Local Enterprise Partnership and Hove-based Legal and General.

Frances Borrer, community investment manager for Legal and General’s Hove office said: “This is a real opportunity for anyone who has a business idea that has a social purpose in the Sussex area, to receive excellent advice and interest free financial backing, to get their business off the ground.

“We had some excellent applications last year and some great successes.

“So any businesses considering applying should get in touch with SE-Assist now particularly if they have any questions.”

For more details visit http://se-assist.co.uk.