Gigabit connection funding set to unlock business growth in Coventry

SMEs in Coventry can now apply for up to £3000 in grant funding to give their business broadband a Gigabit boost, thanks to a new voucher scheme.

Businesses operating in Coventry will be able to secure an affordable connection with free installation to their CityFibre-built and operated local full-fibre network.

The scheme from the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) will benefit businesses previously unable to access full-fibre due to costs – giving them access to transformative gigabit speeds and near limitless bandwidth.

This will help drive greater efficiency, productivity and competitiveness within businesses while also accelerating the roll-out of full-fibre infrastructure across Coventry and the rest of the UK.

Speaking of the move, Rob Hamlin, Commercial Director at CityFibre, said: “Businesses have never been more dependent on internet connectivity than they are today. Copper or fibre to the cabinet services have become a bottleneck to business productivity and only a full-fibre connection delivers the speed and reliability they need to thrive.

“The new Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme represents a great opportunity for SMEs to future-proof their businesses and unleash the potential of full fibre. Talk to your service provider or register your interest with us today to take advantage.”

Coventry became a Gigabit City in 2014 following the upgrade of Coventry City Council’s digital network to a 180km full-fibre infrastructure. It has reached hundreds of businesses as well as over 300 public sector sites including schools, libraries and government buildings.

Councillor Richard Brown, chair of the Council’s Scrutiny Co-ordination Committee, said that it is important that Coventry continues to develop its digital infrastructure. Richard Brown, said: “Towns and cities across the country are expanding their digital capabilities and it’s important that Coventry business growth competes and outperforms other places.

“Ensuring better and faster connections are in place is crucial for all businesses, and the voucher scheme will offer a great incentive to smaller businesses. As we work towards becoming UK City of Culture in 2021 it will encourage even more businesses to stay and invest in the city.”  

Businesses eligible to apply for a Gigabit Voucher must employ no more than 249 people, have an annual turnover below €50m and/or balance sheet below €43m. The business must also not be a subsidiary and/or under the control of a larger SME entity.

Register your interest at: www.cityfibre.com/gigabit-voucher

For more information about CityFibre, visit www.cityfibre.com