An expansion of supports for businesses impacted by COVID-19 has been extended, including the Trading Online Voucher Scheme (TOV) through Local Enterprise Offices, for businesses employing up to 10 people.
Applications are invited from local businesses in Waterford city and county to apply for the voucher up to the value of €2,500, with 90% co-funding from Local Enterprise Office Waterford. With applications open until September 30th, businesses that previously benefitted from the Trading Online Voucher Scheme can also apply for a second voucher. The voucher can be used to help add payment or booking systems to websites, along with subscriptions to low-cost online retailing platform solutions.
In essence, the TOV offers financial assistance of up to €2,500 of which the business contributes 10% and also receives training and advice to help businesses trade online. Funding can be used towards adding payment facilities or booking systems to websites or developing new apps for customer. The voucher can also be used towards subscriptions to low cost online retail platform solutions, to help companies quickly establish a retailing presence online.
Richie Walsh, Head of Enterprise with Local Enterprise Office Waterford said, “Due to the phenomenal uptake of the initial Trading Online Voucher scheme, it has been extended to help businesses, that may not have availed in the past, to pivot towards online selling. Businesses that have already received a TOV, can apply for a second voucher. By accessing the TOV, small businesses can develop an online presence and a sustainable strategy for increasing sales.”
“For many Waterford businesses, the options for trading have been significantly reduced as a result of COVID-19. However, there are many opportunities in online selling and by accessing the Trading Online Voucher scheme, small businesses can begin to explore the digital realm to stay connected with customers. For any business looking to develop their digital presence we would urge them to apply before the September 30th deadline.”
To apply for a Trading Online Voucher, click here.