Coronavirus: People urged to support businesses and groups in Portsmouth that have had to close through crowdfunding site set up by council

Portsmouth residents are being asked to support local businesses, social enterprises, creatives and self-employed by 'paying it forward' through a crowdfunding scheme.

As businesses face uncertainty, with many having to close their doors for the foreseeable future, Portsmouth City Council and Shaping Portsmouth have made changes to their crowdfunding scheme so small businesses can get extra support from the crowd, the council and potentially grant funding.

The scheme was set up in 2019 to provide a boost in funds for small and medium-sized enterprises as well as charities and other groups.

The focus is on sectors not currently covered by the measures already announced and updated daily by central government.

It comes as The News has started the #supportlocal campaign to highlight businesses in our area that are continuing to trade.

Through the crowdfunding site businesses can ask for money for services they will receive when they reopen.

The council will offer match funding of up to £5,000 per project to those which meet set criteria.

Councillor Steve Pitt said: ‘We are committed to supporting residents and businesses during this difficult time. We hope that by changing the criteria on our crowdfunding scheme we will be able to provide more support and help our local businesses to survive. I really hope that any residents who are able to will also show support by paying it forward to the Portsmouth businesses they love.

‘We urge everyone to follow the latest government advice and check the council website for the latest local information.’

Rob Love, CEO of Crowdfunder said: ‘We are proud to be working with Portsmouth City Council and Shaping Portsmouth through Crowdfund Portsmouth, delivering crowdfunding, grants and match funding to micro and small businesses at speed. We know that businesses need cash flow support now: Pay it Forward gives them the ability to access vital cash while staying connected to their customers and supporters. This is a model that works for micro and small businesses as well as for the self-employed.’

To get involved with the scheme go to www.crowdfunder.co.uk/funds/crowdfund-portsmouth