To ask the Minister for the Economy how she will ensure that (i) the COVID-19 Micro-business E-commerce Grant will reach relevant businesses quickly; and (ii) the amount allocated to the scheme will be spent.

(i) The COVID-19 Micro-business E-commerce Grant for retail businesses

opened to applications on 2 February 2021. Invest NI has been promoting the

grant and has seen significant interest from retail businesses. Businesses eligible

for the grant must apply online to Invest NI and if their grant application is

approved the business can begin to incur approved costs for their project. The

businesses must then complete their project and pay their supplier before

making a grant claim.

ii) The scheme has not closed yet but the strong interest so far would indicate

there will be good uptake of the grant by retail businesses.