Published: Tuesday, 13th April 2021
The ‘Go Digital’ scheme, launched last year, has been extended to businesses in west Norfolk thanks to funding from the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk.
The scheme will enable micro, small and medium-sized businesses to make better use of digital technology through funding and one-to-one support.
Go Digital was launched by Norfolk County Council to help businesses based in the county identify digital opportunities. It provides expert one-to-one consultancy and the ability to apply for grants of up to £500.
Digital opportunities could include how to sell products and services online, reach new customers using social media, build customer databases, develop new or existing websites and attract new visitors, or how to work out the best homeworking options for teams.
Successful Go Digital applicants will be assigned an experienced business advisor who will conduct a ‘digital audit’ and provide a comprehensive report to identify digital opportunities. The advisor will help the business put together an action plan and then businesses will have the opportunity to apply for a grant of up to £500 to help them deliver projects using this plan.
The popularity and success of the scheme meant there was a waiting list of businesses in west Norfolk, that had not yet been able to access the scheme. The Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk has provided additional funding to extend the scheme to those west Norfolk businesses who had already expressed and interest and to others who feel they would benefit from this type of support.
Lockdowns and restrictions have left many businesses facing the challenge of reaching their customers remotely by utilising digital services in new ways. This scheme could help them develop new ways of serving their customers.
Lorraine Gore, Chief Executive of the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk said: “I’d encourage business owners to apply as soon as possible. Places are limited for the first round, as we already had a waiting list, but we have agreed to add more funding to run a second round if there is enough demand. Whether you’re looking to make use of more digital devices and technology, tap into the power of social media, or improve your online presence, this support could really help.”
The deadline for applications for this round of Go Digital support is 30 June 2021. Businesses can find out more and apply on the Norfolk County Council website at www.norfolk.gov.uk/GoDigital.
To get the most out of the programme, applications should come from senior decision makers, for example senior managers, directors, founders or chief executives.