The Department for International Trade (DIT) has signed a three-year, £2.6 million contract with Capita to use its GrantIS digital platform to distribute grants to businesses.
Capita said the DIT will be the first client to use the platform – for the distribution of grants to around 7,600 SMEs to find help new markets overseas.
This will take place under the department’s Internationalisation Fund, which is supported by the £38 million European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The grants will match any investments made by SMEs to overcome barriers limiting their ability to export goods and services.
The company said GrantIS will provide SMEs with clear information on the fund and how to apply, and a digital application process that will enable government advisors to provide any necessary support. It will also provide an audit trail.
Andy Start, chief executive officer of Capita Government Services, said: “We are delighted to be working with the Department for International Trade to support the UK’s SMEs and to help increase the value of Britain’s exports as the country exits the European Union.
“We used our significant grant management expertise to develop GrantIS to transform the grant giving process. It will make the awarding of grants from the ERDF Internationalisation Fund more efficient and effective while delivering a better application experience for SMEs.”
Front image from iStock, Vadim Kushniarou
Image in text from iStock, Gocmen
