Businesses with up to 20 staff can join the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) at a reduced cost, thanks to funding from SEGRO.

Money from SEGRO’s S106 contributions, a legal agreement made in the planning process relating to the trading estate’s Simplified Planning Zone, is being used to deliver subsidised two-year FSB memberships to businesses in Slough.

The offer is open to businesses with up to 20 staff and the funding can support up to 60 businesses.

Sole traders, with no employees, will pay £50 instead of £390, and businesses with 1-20 employees will be required to pay £150, discounted from the usual £690.

The memberships will offer businesses advice, financial expertise and support to help make their business thrive.

Will Tuckley, the council’s Chief Executive, said: “We’re delighted to be working with the Federation of Small Businesses to make it easier and more affordable for Slough businesses to access their invaluable support.

“This partnership reflects our continued commitment to strengthening the local economy, supporting entrepreneurship, and making Slough a great place to do business. By reducing the cost barrier, we hope more businesses will take advantage of the FSB’s excellent services and resources.”

James Anderson, FSB’s Regional Business Stakeholder Manager, said: “FSB membership is a lifeline for small businesses, so it is fantastic that Slough Borough Council has invested in supporting their local business community through a subsidised membership scheme.

“Our 24/7 legal advice service has helped thousands of small businesses navigate their way through setting up and running a business. Additionally, our perks such as free or cash-back on business banking and specialist insurance services makes membership invaluable for Slough’s small businesses.”

To celebrate the partnership and launch of the offer, the council and FSB will be hosting a networking event at Plus X Innovation, 2 Brunel Way, SL1 1FL.

It’s on Tuesday 16 June, from 11am-2pm.

There will be networking, refreshments, and an opportunity to hear more about the membership scheme and how your business can benefit from it.

Register for the event.

Businesses can submit an expression of interest in this scheme by emailing kevin.winchester@fsb.org.uk