The UK government has unveiled a £20 million Brexit support package to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with changes to customs and tax rules when trading with the EU.
The SME Brexit Support Fund aims to help businesses prepare for the implementation of further import controls which come into force later this year.
You can use the grant for training on:
- How to complete customs declarations
- How to manage customs processes and use customs software and system
- Specific import and export related aspects including VAT, excuse and rules of origin
Who will be able to apply?
Your business must:
- Be established in the UK
- Have been established in the UK for at least 12 months
- Not have previously failed to meet its tax or customs obligations
- Have no more than 500 employees
- Have no more than £100 million turnover
- Only import or export good between Great Britain and the EU, or move good between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, if you already import or export well from or to the non-EU country you are not eligible for this grant.
Your business must also either:
- Complete (or intend to complete) import or export declarations internally for its own good
- Use someone else to complete import or export declarations but requires additional capability internally to effectively import or export (such as advice on rules of origin or advice on dealing with a supply chain)
Businesses who trade only with the EU and are therefore new to importing and exporting processes and will be encouraged to apply for grants of up to £2000 for each trader to pay for practical support, including training and professional advice, to ensure they can continue trading effectively.
The closing date for applications is 30 June 2021. HMRC states that the fund may close for applications earlier if the full £20 million is allocated.
Make Cherry, National Chairman of Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), said:
`We have been asking for proper financial assistance of this scale so that a cash-strapped small business can afford to buy-in expertise, training and practical support. The new find will make significant difference. `
