This scheme provides financial assistance to businesses to help meet their training needs. Trafford Council recognises the importance of upskilling and basic customer care to business success and survival. Businesses cannot stand still and not only do they have to meet and adapt to changes to statutory regulations such as health and safety; they also need to be fully adaptable to new and emerging business techniques and technologies. Ensuring that both owners and staff are equipped to meet these changes is paramount for a successful business.
Download the Town Centres Training Loan Guidance Notes.
Download the Town Centres Training Loan Application.
Eligibility
Both existing businesses and new businesses which are in Altrincham, Sale, Stretford & Urmston town centres will be considered (see maps of coverage areas). Eligible applicants will:
- can clearly demonstrate how this training will assist business growth, increase sales, improve customer service or comply with legislation.
- offer value for money.
Trafford Council will have ultimate discretion in determining the types of business that are eligible for loan funding assistance. This will be assessed on a case by case basis.
Non-eligible business types include: payday loan companies; betting/gambling shops; charity shops; pawnbrokers; adult shops; pound shops; and temporary shops. A lease must be in place for the period of the loan.
An applicant / business will only be eligible to receive one individual award in any 12 month period.
Loan Amounts
We offer loans of up to £1,000 to assist new-start and existing businesses with their training requirements.
The scheme has a limited budget and applications will be considered on a ‘first come first served’ basis.
Loan Term
Unless otherwise agreed, repayments will be monthly in 12 monthly instalments.
Loan Interest Rates
The loan will be interest free, unless in the instance of default, where the rate of interest will be charged at 4% plus the Bank of England Base Rate.
Arrangement Fee
An administration fee of 5% will be added to the loan amount, which will be repaid first from the monthly repayments.
Repaying Your Loan Early
The outstanding loan amount can be repaid in full at any time without penalty.