4. Frequently Asked Questions

This list of FAQs is not exhaustive. As our awareness of common queries grows, we will continue to expand this section to better support applicants and stakeholders.

If you have a question that isn't currently addressed, please contact the Portfolio Management Office.

Q: Is it permissible to include the cost of land purchase or current building assets in project costings?

A: Yes, provided the site has been purchased or the building(s) in question will be dedicated to the sole purpose of enabling the project.

Type of Project

Q: Is it correct that proposals do not have to create new buildings, but that retrofitting/refurbishment of existing premises would be acceptable?

A: Yes, it is possible to secure funding for a retrofit/refurb project provided it is still creating new commercial space, typically by way of a Planning 'Change of Use', for example converting a former retail unit into factory space.

Financial

Q: Are you expecting a business to fund the entire project first and recover relevant costs afterwards?

A: Yes, you would need to evidence the costs incurred and submit the details on our claim form retrospectively. Costs can be recovered via quarterly defrayed claims. The costs incurred need to be eligible capital costs directly relating to your project.

Q: Have you created value bands within the MWGD that bids must fit into?

A: The MWGD has not set any formulas for considering strategic assessments.  However, meeting the critical success factors will be a key consideration with particular emphasis on a project's ability to create jobs, improve productivity and level additional investment will be central to the assessment process.

Q: Have you set a lower limit for the overall cost of a project?

A: Yes, the minimum project value is £500k.  There is also an upper limit of £25m.

Q: I understand the maximum Fund intervention rate on a project will be 40% of overall project cost. Will the value of any public sector finance be factored into this?

A: Whilst there is a requirement for the MWGD to lever private sector investment, other public sector funds are viable match providing thee terms and conditions of such funding allow.

Evaluation

Q: Who will assess the Strategic Assessment Forms?

A: The self-assessment aspect to the form is an essential factor in this process and organisation are advised to complete that section transparently and accurately.  Failure to do so is likely to count against the project.  Each submission will be considered by an external and independent consultancy as well as being considered by the Portfolio Management Office and subject matter experts within the council.  On the more promising projects, the Portfolio Management Office will look to conduct discussions with lead organisations to further verify the information provided.

Contacts

Q: Where can I go for further assistance in putting a bid together?

A: Please continue to contact the Portfolio Management Office, but you can also refer to the Contact Page of our website where we have provided a list of organisations (and their contact details) who are prepared to support you through the process.