- 31/01/2013
- Posted by: Joyce Watson MS
- Category: Feature
![](https://www.joycewatson.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/nafw-1110x550.jpg)
Joyce urges SMEs to apply before 11 February deadline
Assembly Member Joyce Watson is urging the Welsh Government to “get word out” to Milford Haven businesses before a new rate relief scheme closes for applications next month.
“The first round of applications will close on 11 February, so it is really important that eligible businesses are made aware of the potential benefits and make the most of this window of opportunity,” Mrs Watson said.
Earlier this month the Welsh Government officially awarded the Haven waterway enterprise zone status. New and expanding small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) located within the zone are eligible to apply for funding under the new Enterprise Zone Business Rate Incentive Scheme. The first call for applications was made on 15 January and will close at 9am on 11 February.
In the Senedd on Tuesday (29 Jan), Mrs Watson asked the First Minister how the Government was marketing the scheme to eligible businesses.
The First Minister said the scheme is being publicised through social media and the local press, as well as via direct mail sent to businesses in the zone.
The Haven Waterway Enterprise Zone will focus on investment in energy projects, the creation of green jobs and the enhancement of existing jobs. Priorities for the Zone include the enhancement of ICT and transport links. It includes Blackbridge, Haverfordwest Airport, Honeyborough Industrial Estate, Murco, Pembroke Port, RWE, South Hook, Thornton Industrial Estate, Valero and Waterston and Pembrokeshire Science and Technology Park (including Waterloo and London Road).
For more information about the Enterprise Zone Business Rate Incentive Scheme, including application forms and guidance, please visit: www.enterprisezones.wales.gov.uk, call 03000 6 03000 or e-mail: [email protected].