§ Mr. Stephen O'BrienTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans she has(a) to increase the upper limit of Smart award grants and (b) to simplify the Smart application process. [152058]
§ Nigel GriffithsThe information is as follows.
(a) Following the DTI's review of business support, the Smart scheme has been replaced with a new product from 1 June 2003, Grant for Research and Development, which provides a higher maximum grant for each element than did Smart. The maxima are now £20,000 for a micro project. £75,000 for a research project, £200,000 for a development project and £500,000 for an exceptional development project.
(b) In December 2002 the Smart application form and guidance notes for applicants were simplified so that the number of questions on the form was reduced from 35 to nine. Those modifications have been carried over into the Grant for Research and Development 652W application form. The application procedure is the minimum necessary to protect public funds but is kept under review.
§ Mr. Stephen O'BrienTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what proportion of Smart award-winners have reported increased profitability as a result of their award. [152059]
§ Nigel GriffithsThe report of the most recent, independent evaluation of the Smart scheme was published in September 2001. Of those award recipients surveyed 51 per cent. indicated that their business had become more profitable as a result of the Smart support received.