Evaluation of the GBSLEP Pivot & Prosper Grant Fund Programme: Final Report

The Pivot & Prosper grant fund programme was aimed at helping businesses recover quickly from the COVID-19 crisis. It provided a grant for businesses that could evidence a clear plan for new ways of working, build resilience, increase employment and lead to growth in productivity and improved sustainability. 120 enquiries were received for the fund resulting in 74 full applications. 50 projects were funded with a total grant of £1,778,766 which was matched £1,410,461 in additional funding (44 percent which was more than 25 percent matching required). 2 businesses did not take up their offer.

This final report is based on analysis of project documents and a small number of interviews with stakeholders. This report aims to pull out key learning from the implementation of the pilot to inform the development of a scaled provision along similar lines in the region.