City of York Council is warning small businesses and registered charities that time is running out to apply for a £3,000 Connection Voucher to boost their broadband speeds.
Since the scheme launched in April 2014, over 300 York businesses and registered charities have benefitted by upgrading to high-speed broadband, but organisations are being advised to apply for a Connection Voucher as soon as possible to avoid missing out.
Funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, the scheme offers grants of up to £3,000 for SMEs and registered charities seeking faster and better broadband.
Due to the thriving nationwide demand, the scheme, which has issued 200 Connection Vouchers in York since April 2015, is fast running out. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport have warned that with current demand, vouchers are expected to be fully allocated soon so organisations are advised to apply as soon as possible.
Councillor Ian Gillies, Executive Member for Planning and Transport said: “Over 300 businesses and registered charities have received a grant in York since Spring 2014 and there’s still time for many more to benefit from this offer. As a council we are committed to improving digital infrastructure and supporting businesses across the city. So far the scheme has proven successful in supporting businesses and registered charities and it is hoped more apply before the deadline. Any organisation that has not yet explored this opportunity is urged to do so to ensure they don’t miss out before the scheme closes.”
The voucher scheme is just one element of York’s strategy to become the best connected digital city in the UK. In the past year funding from the DCMS has seen the world’s first child friendly city centre Wi-Fi, as well as Wi-Fi in public buildings and buses across the city. Last year York also announced a private sector partnership which aims to see York become the UK’s first Gigabit city in 2017.
Any micro, small or medium sized enterprise or charity interested in a Connection Voucher are advised to contact the Digital City Team as soon as possible on 01904 55 2999 or yorksuperconnectedcity@york.gov.uk. Further information can now also be found on https://www.connectionvouchers.co.uk/