A foundation set up to help North East businesses recover from the worst effects of the coronavirus pandemic has given out its 10th grant and said more help is available.
The Open North Foundation aims to assist small firms in the North East looking to recover from the pandemic through grants and in-kind support such as marketing, HR and finance. Directors, ambassadors and supporters of the Foundation provide their time pro bono and it has received a number of major cash donations.
After launching last summer, the Foundation has awarded 10 grants and says it currently has the capacity to support another 30 businesses.
READ MORE: {}
The organisation has raised thousands of pounds from businesses in the region, including two donations of £10,000.
Richard Swart, chair of the Open North Foundation, said: “We are starting to turn a corner in the fight against Covid-19 but there is still a lot of uncertainty ahead for the economy. The foundation will be here to help as many local businesses as possible for as long as it is needed.”
“We would like to encourage businesses and organisations that are in a position to pledge financial and or service support, to join us in our fight to secure the future of North East businesses. Full details of what we do and requirements to qualify for support are on our website, www.opennorthfoundation.co.uk.”
As well as donations from businesses in the region, the Foundation is raising funds through its Great North Raffle, online events and sponsored activities.
Supporters include Northumbria University, the North East Institute of Business Ethics, Rathbones and Prima Cheese. The Journal is also backing the initiative.
Most Read
The latest company to benefit from the Foundation is Chester-le-Street sports therapy business Therapy4U.
The company was forced to close during national lockdowns, except for emergency appointments and suffered significantly. It has been given a grant to buy new equipment so that it can offer a wider service when it is allowed to re-open.
Owner Stuart Houston said: ““I anticipate business will come back when the current lockdown is eased and the very quick rollout of vaccines means most of my clients will, hopefully, receive their first vaccine by the end of the spring.
“I have had countless messages from both existing and potential clients, who are desperate to come and see me to work on reducing pain and increasing mobility, when they feel it is safe for them to do so.”