FIFTY Fermanagh businesses have signed up to the Broadband Connection Voucher Scheme which is being offered to SMEs, social enterprises and registered charities throughout the Fermanagh and Omagh District Council area.

The innovative scheme, “Super Connected”, which is managed by Belfast City Council, offers grants of up to £3,000 to obtain high-speed broadband connections.

Funding of £40 million was allocated to the initiative from the UK Department for Culture, Media and Sport and is being offered on a first come, first served basis.

The grant, which will enable businesses to obtain faster, more reliable broadband, pays for the installation costs of upgrading broadband connections and all recipients have to pay is for the VAT and monthly line rental.

Speaking about the innovative scheme, the Vice-Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Paul Robinson, explained that the vouchers can be used in a business premises, or home, if that is the main place of work.

Of the 50 applications received, eight have already been approved, “and this number is expected to increase over the next number of weeks,” he said.

Mr. Robinson added: “I would urge businesses to make the most of this offer as soon as possible and before the pool of funding has been depleted, as this is such an important initiative which will ensure they are properly equipped to compete in today’s digital age.” Applicants for the scheme must operate within an eligible postcode. All details on eligibility or how to apply to the scheme can be obtained from John P McGonigle, Project Manager, Belfast Connection Voucher Scheme on 0800 587 4695 or e-mail: connectionvouchers@belfastcity.gov.uk