Brecon Garage boosts capacity with Powys Council grant

EV Sales and Repairs received just over £10,000 through Powys County Council’s Business Capital Grant last year. It used the money to buy equipment designed to increase service capacity.

Run by Arvydas Kazlauskas and Zoe Powell, a statement from the Brecon-based business said: “The grant funding has had a huge positive impact on our business.

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"Since purchasing the new equipment, we have been able to work much quicker and increase the number of cars coming in and out of the workshop.”

The business also said: “We have also been able to carry out more battery upgrades, which are a major part of our business, income, and future growth.”

Businesses across Powys are being encouraged to apply for the latest round of Business Growth Grants, which offer between £2,500 and £25,000.

Expressions of Interest opened on September 3 and close on September 28. Applications can be made through the Powys County Council website.

Councillor Glyn Preston, Powys County Council’s Cabinet Member for a More Prosperous Powys, said: “We are committed to supporting ambitious businesses that want to invest, innovate and create opportunities within Powys.”

The new equipment being used by Arvydas Kazlauskas at EV Sales and Repairs in Brecon. (Image: Powys County Council)

The grant scheme is funded by the UK Government through the Local Growth Fund and delivered by the council. It aims to increase investment in businesses with high growth potential.

Support can be used for new or second-hand equipment and machinery, improvements to commercial premises, and IT or digital hardware linked to a project.

Funding may also cover green factory vehicles for industrial or manufacturing businesses. Specialist costs linked to capital investment can be included, such as technical training, machinery installation, specialist software, delivery, and website or e-commerce development.

Councillor Preston added: “These grants will help businesses accelerate their growth plans, improve productivity, reach new markets and strengthen their long-term resilience.”

Each award covers 50 per cent of eligible costs, up to £25,000. Applicants must provide private sector match funding and pay all project costs before receiving reimbursement.

Applications will be assessed competitively, with value for money, expected impact and growth potential considered.

Start-ups, micro businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises with fewer than 250 employees can apply if they have a registered address in Powys and the investment supports county operations.

Priority sectors include advanced manufacturing and engineering, agriculture, horticulture and forestry, construction, digital, energy, food and drink, retail, and tourism and leisure, although all sectors may apply.

Free guidance is available through Business Wales. Projects must be completed and claimed by February 26, 2027.