Hospitality businesses across the UK are being invited to apply for a share of a new £10 million Hospitality Grant Scheme, designed to support new ventures, bring vacant premises back into use and help develop the workforce of the future.
The three-year programme will provide funding for projects that encourage business growth, create opportunities for skills development and strengthen hospitality’s role within local communities.
Announcing the scheme, Minister for the Future of Work, Kate Dearden, highlighted the wider contribution hospitality businesses make to towns and neighbourhoods across the country.
“Hospitality venues are where communities come together and where many people get their first experience of work,” she said. “They create jobs and help our towns and neighbourhoods to thrive. This funding will back local businesses to grow, boost opportunities for people across the UK and support growth in every part of the country.”
The funding will support projects that help launch new hospitality businesses, repurpose empty premises and deliver training initiatives that equip people with the skills, confidence and work ethic needed to pursue careers in the sector.
As part of the overall package, £3 million has been allocated to Pub is The Hub, the independent not-for-profit organisation that helps pubs in rural and deprived communities diversify their offer. Supported projects may include village stores, community cafés, play areas and arts and crafts activities, helping pubs expand their role as community hubs.
The launch follows the Government’s recent announcement that pubs, clubs and live music venues will receive a 20% reduction in business rates bills from April, with the typical pub expected to save around £1,000 next year.
Jane O’Riordan, co-chair of the Hospitality Sector Council, welcomed the funding and the opportunities it could create for businesses and future talent.
“We welcome the launch of this grant scheme, which builds on a successful pilot and demonstrates what can be achieved when government and industry work together. The flexible funding will help support innovative projects that boost productivity and sustainability, create opportunities for young people and those furthest from the labour market, and deliver the shared priorities of the Hospitality Sector Council and the wider sector.”
According to the official Government announcement, guidance for the scheme is available now with applications being received from the end of September.
