Small businesses, thumb charities and community groups in the Stroud district are being given the chance to apply for grants of up to three thousand pounds as part of a government scheme to speed up access to superfast broadband.
The Superfast Britain initiative is funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). It’s already been rolled out in 22 cities and has now been extended to a further 28 areas. Gloucester City Council is one of the new locations and it’s partnering with Stroud District Council and Tewkesbury Borough Council.
Companies and organisations in parts of these districts will be eligible to apply for vouchers to cover connection costs of between £100 and £3,000.
Speaking of the scheme, Barry Wyatt, Strategic Head of Development Services at Stroud District Council said, “We are very pleased to be able to work in partnership with Gloucester City Council to make this funding available to our businesses. A high speed broadband connection can transform businesses, boosting productivity and innovation, enhancing communication and connections all of which ultimately lead to growth. This is great news for the area.”
The scheme will help businesses, charities and voluntary organisations in eligible parts of the Stroud district that struggle with inadequate broadband provision in their offices. The grant will pay towards the installation of a superfast system, to improve connectivity, reduce downtime, increase speed and help improve staff productivity. It can also fund connection at home if this is the main place of work.