Making it simpler to apply for business grants

In August of 2009, the South West RDA commissioned an independent adviser to review the way in which businesses apply for RDPE funds. For most applicants, the journey from having a project idea through to signing a contract for an RDPE grant involves contact with several different people at various stages. The review was asked to recommend improvements that would make the process easier for all concerned. The adviser spoke to applicants and staff in the organisations involved, and reported back at the end of October.

A number of changes have already been implemented or are underway as a result. The way that applications are logged when they first arrive at the RDA and the process of preparing and issuing contracts to successful projects have both been speeded up.

The RDPE website has been completely overhauled, to make it more user-friendly and easier to navigate. The standard application form is being redesigned to make it clearer to use and simpler to complete.

Ian Hague, RDPE delivery manager at South West RDA said “Applicants were very helpful in pointing out ways in which we might improve the process, and we are pleased that some changes have already been made, with others still being worked on.

“In particular, we’ve improved the way in which the people involved – Business Link staff, Project Development Officers and colleagues in the RDA – can work together for the benefit of businesses, giving clearer information and speeding up the process. Of course, the distribution of public money brings with it some constraints and checks, and European regulations add an extra layer of complexity. We will keep on trying to keep things as simple for businesses as we can.”

For further details see the Summary of Issues and Actions.