The Government has extended eligibility for the €60m Small Business Assistance Scheme for Covid (SBASC) to include businesses operating from a non-rateable premise like a home business or yard.
The SBASC is for businesses which are not eligible for CRSS or other sector specific grants, that are down 75% or more of turnover.
In a statement, the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar said by extending eligibility for the SBASC, they hope to catch those who have not qualified under the existing schemes, mainly because they don't operate from a rateable premises.
"Those who are self-employed and working from a non-rateable premises, such as their own home for example, can apply for a €4,000 payment to help with fixed costs," the Tánaiste said.
Mr Varadkar said while the grant is modest, it will make a big difference to businesses.
"It is designed to help with energy bills, security, IT systems fees, legal and accounting fees or any other fixed costs that may incur as part of running a business," he said.
The Government also confirmed that it is relaunching the Micro Enterprise Assistance Scheme, so that the country's smallest businesses, those with a turnover of less than €50,000 can apply for a grant of €1,000 to help with fixed costs.
