Could your business benefit from a grant for a superfast broadband connection?
The Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme is intended to further the strategic objective of the Local Full Fibre Networks programme to stimulate commercial investment in full fibre coverage across the UK in both rural and urban locations.
A market trial of the voucher scheme for business premises was launched in late 2017 in four areas across the country, with one area also running a trial of residential vouchers.
Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Cllr Roisin Mulgrew said: “Businesses and residents can obtain vouchers from suppliers who are registered with the scheme. Vouchers may only be used to support the cost of eligible connections. Suppliers can offer vouchers to both new and existing customers.
“Where suppliers are able to provide qualifying connections to single SME’s, vouchers will be made available to cover up to £3,000 of eligible costs.
“The only way residents can benefit from the voucher scheme is as part of a local community group scheme, which must also include small businesses. Residents and businesses taking part in a group scheme are able to join together to pool the value of their vouchers. Within this group the total value of vouchers used by businesses must always be greater than the value of vouchers taken by residents.
“In some areas the value of a single voucher will not fully meet the installation costs of a gigabit capable full fibre connection. Anyone in this position can also benefit from the group approach outlined above.”
Businesses and local community groups interested in requesting a voucher will be able to find full details of our scheme the website at:
https://gigabitvoucher.culture.gov.uk/.
The website also includes instructions on how to register for new suppliers, and the full details and terms and conditions of the scheme.
