At his press conference on October 29, 2020, Prime Minister Jean Castex outlined the new measures unveiled by Emmanuel Macron as part of the reconfinement linked to the health crisis. The solidarity fund has been set up to support VSEs, SMEs, the self-employed and entrepreneurs most affected by the crisis. The decree of November 2, 2020 details the new conditions for benefiting from it. Here's what you need to know.
What is the solidarity fund?
Set up by the government in March 2020, the purpose of the solidarity fund is to pay aid to companies most affected by the economic, financial and social consequences of the crisis and containment, particularly VSEs, SMEs, the self-employed and entrepreneurs.
The fund is financed by the State and voluntary local authorities. It complements other schemes, such as short-time working to avoid redundancies resulting from a drop in activity.
Who can benefit from the solidarity fund?
The solidarity fund is aimed at craftsmen, shopkeepers, self-employed professionals and all economic agents, whatever their status or tax regime.
Since its launch in March 2020, the solidarity fund has evolved several times, notably in terms of access. Initially open to companies subject to administrative closure during containment, then to those demonstrating a sufficient drop in sales, it was then limited to companies belonging to the sectors most affected by the crisis.
Since the start of the September-October 2020 school year, the solidarity fund has been gradually extended to players affected by the new restrictions (VSE/SMEs/self-employed/entrepreneurs).
How much can I get?
The amount of aid offered under the solidarity fund depends on the sector of activity and the situation of the company concerned.
There are several different cases:
- The company was administratively closed down in November: aid of up to 10,000 euros is available.
- The company is part of a protected sector (S1) or has lost more than 50% of its sales: the subsidy granted corresponds to the amount of the loss of sales, up to a maximum of 10,000 euros.
- The company is part of an S1bis sector and has lost more than 80% of sales during the first confinement: the grant is equal to 80% of the amount of sales lost, up to a maximum of 10,000 euros. Where this loss exceeds 1,500 euros, the minimum grant is 1,500 euros.
- The company can demonstrate a drop in sales of more than 50%: assistance can be granted up to 1,500 euros.
How can I get help from the solidarity fund?
Eligible companies can apply by logging on to the Direction générale des finances publiques website from their personal space.
In the event of difficulties, they can obtain further information by contacting 0 806 000 245, the number set up by the Ministry of the Economy, Finance and Recovery to help professionals and inform them of the various emergency aids available.
Applications can be submitted until November 30, 2020.