03/02/2022
Two new pilot schemes open today to support local businesses and create a more vibrant city.
Our Vacant to Vibrant scheme will provide capital grants to property owners to bring empty spaces in Belfast city centre back into use as pop-up shops or facilities for ‘meanwhile’ use.
Start-ups, independent retailers, social enterprises and cultural, charity and voluntary organisations looking for new premises will then be ‘matched’ to suitable properties, bringing new types of business into the city centre and improving the quality and look of streets in the area.
Our second initiative, Supporting Vibrant Business Destinations, offers support to traders and business groups located along the city’s main arterial routes, together with the Department for Communities.
Premises and groups who want to set up business associations, or breathe new life into older collaborations, can apply for funding of up to £40,000 to support local high streets in attracting more shoppers and visitors.
Interested? Property owners and businesses seeking support can fill in the expression of interest forms on our website and our team will contact you directly to help shape these exciting initiatives:
* Vacant to Vibrant - www.belfastcity.gov.uk/vacanttovibrant - by 4pm on Monday 28 February
* Supporting Vibrant Business Destinations - www.belfastcity.gov.uk/vibrantdestinations - applications open until May 2023
