As London's international trade, investment and promotion agency, it’s our job to attract international businesses to London and help London businesses grow overseas. Part of that job also includes sharing relevant industry resources – you’ll find useful links below which should provide you with the latest information on dealing with coronavirus.
Coronavirus business webinars
Sign up for our free webinars and strengthen your business resilience and recovery planning.Official government resources
Support for businesses
The government has created a large economic stimulus package designed to protect businesses and employees. From interest free loans to grants for SMEs, there are several options businesses can access during this time.
Quick links:
- Bounce Back Loan for SMEs, with no fees or interest for 12 months
- Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme offering loans of up to £5m
- Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
- Deferring VAT and Income Tax payments
- Grant funding of £10,000 for businesses in receipt of small business rate relief
- Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) relief for SMEs
- Support for larger firms through the COVID-19 Corporate Financing Facility
Find the full list of what’s available on the government's coronavirus support website.
In addition, startups can take advantage of the Future Fund, which will issue government loans between £125,000 to £5m to businesses dealing with financing difficulties, subject to match funding from private investors.
Businesses relying on Trade Credit Insurance can also get support with the government's temporary guarantee, making sure they're protected against possible payment defaults.
Self-employment Income Support Scheme
Claim a grant worth 80% of average monthly earnings (up to £2,500 per month) if you're self-employed or a member of a partnership and have lost income.
Guidance for employers and businesses on coronavirus
Get information on certifying an absence from work, SSP, employees from vulnerable groups and keeping HR systems up to date.
Guidance for employees
Find out about SSP entitlement and information for self-employed and furloughed workers.
WhatsApp information service
Sign up to receive regular and trustworthy updates.
Visa advice
Explore the steps you need to take to extend your visa.
Other resources
Travelling to and around London
See the latest official advice, resources, information on self-isolation and how to avoid getting sick if you must travel.
Pay It Forward
The Mayor of London is helping businesses pre-sell goods and services in advance through its free crowdfunding platform. Signing up is easy and Londoners can also nominate their favourite local business to get involved.
London Growth Hub
Register for a one-to-one telephone appointment, download a checklist with the key steps and access resources from leading trade organisations.
Film and TV Emergency Relief Fund
Access emergency short-term funding for those who have been directly affected by the closure of productions across the UK.
Support from London & Partners
London & Partners is working with business groups, the Mayor of London and other stakeholders to advise on how government and others can support London’s businesses.
Our series of webinars offer advice on how to manage this period and on wider skills which we think may be useful to you.
Looking ahead, London & Partners is already planning for the economic recovery. We are working with industry in preparing for consumer demand and investment to return, building a plan for how we respond.
