Henry Smith MP has welcomed new figures showing £500 million has been awarded to small businesses across the country, and is urging more entrepreneurs in Crawley to apply.

The new figures show that 94 loans have been awarded in Crawley, with firms receiving over £646,691 in support.

Since 2012, the Start Up Loans programme has issued nearly 65,000 loans to entrepreneurs and small businesses across the country, helping them to grow and create well-paying jobs in their local area.

As part of the Government’s modern Industrial Strategy, entrepreneurs are being given support to start up, and businesses are supported to grow and reach their full potential.

£13 billion of business rates support is being provided over the coming years, as well as tackling delays in payments to small businesses to ensure that they are paid on time.

Henry said;

“It’s fantastic news that over £500 million has already been used to support smaller firms across the country, including more than £640,000 here in Crawley.

“Now I’m urging more small and start up businesses here to apply for this support, which will help them to boost their productivity and create new jobs.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and through the modern Industrial Strategy and schemes like the Start Up Loans programme, this Government is determined to support them.”