Business Productivity & Digitisation: Barnsley

This project is designed to help SME’s in Barnsley boost productivity and drive digital innovation by offering capital and revenue grants. Its core aim is to help businesses identify productivity challenges and implement solutions that strengthen their competitiveness, sustainability, and potential for growth. While the programme will initially focus on safeguarding existing businesses and jobs, priority will be given to applicants who can clearly demonstrate how their proposed investments will lead to measurable productivity improvements and create new employment opportunities within the region.

The grant provides up to 50% funding for projects up to £24,999, with an open call competitive process inviting businesses to apply for grants ranging from £2,500 to £12,499. These funds can support a wide range of digital, operational, and technology‑driven improvements.

In Barnsley, businesses will receive tailored support through a Key Account Manager, who will assess their current operations, identify gaps, and ensure the correct foundations are in place to benefit from the Business Productivity Grant and other complementary support available across South Yorkshire.

Eligible expenditure covers a broad selection of productivity‑enhancing investments, including CRM systems, cloud tools, new software development, remote‑working solutions, collaboration technologies, data transfer solutions, high‑quality video streaming tools, VoIP systems, new computers and peripheral devices, app development, e‑commerce platforms, consultancy, and integration costs. Funding may also support manufacturing and production equipment such as machinery, robotics, sensors, and tooling, as well as premises improvements including mezzanines, ventilation, ducting, and specialist racking, plus moulds, testing, and designs needed before large‑scale manufacturing.

This grant provides SMEs with a valuable opportunity to modernise operations and strengthen long‑term productivity.

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