The latest news that LoCASE funding has been extended until the Spring of 2023 is fantastic news for SMEs based in Kent.
LoCASE is a green grant funding initiative supported by the European Regional Development Fund and is geared towards helping businesses become more productive whilst encouraging them to use low carbon solutions.
Since its creation LoCASE has helped hundreds of small businesses and organisations across the South East to fund green projects that not only help to reduce carbon emissions but also save them money. Amongst these have been eighteen sports facilities across Kent, which have mainly taken up funding to install LED lighting solutions.
Aside from potentially helping the planet and improving business finances, LoCASE funding also creates a boost to local economies, creating new jobs and work for other businesses.
The project criteria for the latest funding tranche have changed sightly to reflect the needs of businesses after the Covid-19 pandemic. Alongside traditional options such as LED light installation, SMEs can also apply for funding for software and hardware that support remote access and home working capabilities. These changes could open up increased funding opportunities for Kent based businesses who are considering hybrid-working or who have embraced home working over the last twelve months.
Does your business qualify for LoCASE funding?
In order to qualify for LoCASE funding a company must meet the following criteria:
- It must be an SME with 250 full-time employees or less
- It must have an annual turnover of £44million or less
- It must not have received more than £180,000 in state funding in the last three years.
How much can my business apply for?
LoCASE funding will pay a maximum of 40% of your project with a minimum payment of £1000 and a maximum payment of £10,000.
Additionally, the latest section of funding is open to companies and organisations who have already received a LoCASE grant but are now looking to implement additional energy saving technologies and products. So, if for example a business has received a grant for insulation, you can apply for another grant for LED lighting.
More information is available on the LoCASE website.
NCS Technology have extensive experience of working on LoCASE funded projects in Kent and are happy to guide you through an application. We also offer a free, no-obligation lighting survey which is an excellent reference point for any company considering upgrading to energy efficient LED lighting.