As Norwich becomes one of the new Super Connected cities, local business Swains Plc leads the way as Norfolk’s first Broadband Connection Vouchers supplier for SMEs.
A leading independent business communications company has become Norfolk’s first registered supplier for the Government’s new Broadband Connection Vouchers scheme, launched to provide SMEs with much needed, improved broadband connections.
In April, Norwich went live as one of 22 UK SuperConnected cities who will benefit from faster and better high grade fibre broadband and Ethernet connections, in selected NR1 – NR9 postcodes. The scheme allows small to medium sized Norfolk business to claim up to £3,000 to cover the capital and equipment costs of installation or upgrading their broadband (from 20 Mbps – 1 GB), via a voucher scheme that contributes towards the costs of connections.
The UK government has set aside £150 million to set up the SuperConnected cities scheme which is part of the SuperFast Britain initiative. Interested SMEs who meet certain criteria, can apply for a voucher by requesting a quote from a registered supplier, then completing and submitting an application form. Vouchers will be issued to successful applicants (a survey of the premises may be required). Successful applicants must place their order within 28 days of their voucher being issued and installations have to take place within 9 months.
As abusiness that stands at the forefront of communications and data technolgy, with 20 years of experience providing telecom and internet services to companies all over the UK, Swains realised the Connection Vouchers represented a great opportunity to help Norwich businesses.
Claire Swain Mason, Commercial Director said, “Swains has always been ahead of developments. We want to help more Norwich SMEs work in the fast lane of business by providing the infrastructure, technical expertise and local market understanding they need. This allows us to provide a well-supported and technically robust service for companies who wish to take advantage of the voucher scheme.”
She adds, “Swains has a preferred and select group of IT service providers (ISPs) who can provide the service around the connection too, making sure the service is second to none from point to point. Working together with Norwich and Norfolk based technical talent strengthens the delivery of the technology that Norwich SME’s needs to thrive.”
One of the local IT support companies, Onebyte, run by Warren Pountain, said, “We are very happy to support Swains and help facilitate a much needed Internet boost to the city. Swains provide credible, resilient connections that we can rely on as a platform to manage the cloud and hybrid based platforms SME’s need.”
