How to apply for a Trading Online Voucher (TOV)
When it comes to working in a digital space sometimes we need a little help to get started in the right direction. To help, the LEO Trading Online Voucher (TOV) Scheme has got your back! The process is as smooth as your morning coffee ritual, minus the caffeine jitters, and takes no more than a few hours. OK… enough paperwork cliches lets dive into the steps of how you can get approved for your TOV.
1. Identify Your Online Needs
Just as you wouldn't order a pizza without knowing your toppings, you need to know the services your business requires to enhance its online presence. Perhaps, adding an additional ecommerce functionality to your existing website, or maybe it’s an upgrade to your digital marketing strategy (SEO, social media, content creation). You get the idea... There are a variety of services like IT consultation, web and app development, web analytics, and more are available for you to choose from.
It's genuinely worth taking a little bit of time on this first step to work out what will be of mist benefit to your business. Think of feedback for your customers or any pain points in your business that you might want to resolve.
2. Gather Three Quotes
Next, you'll need quotations from three distinct suppliers who can cater to your chosen services. This can be the trickiest part of the process as not all digital agencies like to hand out quotes for online trading vouchers (we’re not one of them so feel free to contact us). Sometimes you might find that you’re not getting the response from other agencies don’t worry! If only one agency provides everything you need, you can have a chat with your Local Enterprise Office (LEO) and get an exception.
One thing to keep in mind at this stage is that you are also looking for the right agency for you to work with. Remember that one of the three you choose will become a partner in your project. Be sure that they are the right fit for you in terms of how they work, and the services that they can supply. Once approved it is up to you to select who you think is the best fit. Your local LEO office leave that decision for you to make.
3. Attend an Information Webinar
Make a date with a 2-3 hours informational webinar. Not only will it provide you with the application form but it's also a crash course on everything you need to know about establishing a strong online presence. It covers topics under wed design, digital marketing, social media and SEO (Search Engine Optimisation). The webinar is a really useful tool in helping you refine your digital needs and make a successful application. Booking is as simple as going to your LEO's website, selecting the TOV webinar, filling in your details, and voila! You're all set!
To get started you can visit the Local Enterprise Office official site and search for the details of your local LEO office from there.
4. Submit the Application
Last but not least, (it's the fun part) paperwork time Submit a typed application form (handwritten forms are as welcome as spam emails) detailing your company information, business description, and project plan. Remember to also include your quotes, evidence of trading, and if needed, consult with your LEO before applying. Then email it to your LEO and voila, you're officially in the TOV race!
Downloading the Application Form
The Trading Online Voucher Application Form will be emailed to you after you attend the webinar (assuming you are eligible for the scheme) but you can also download the application form here.
There you have it! Growth one growth opportunity for your business in the pipeline. Just sit back and within 1-4 weeks, you'll hear if you're TOV approved. Once finished you can start working with you preferred quote provider.
If any queries pop up, don't hesitate to contact us. We’re happy to share any information we can with you. For the businesses we have worked with applying for the Trading Online Voucher has been a huge help in setting them up for growth. Best of luck with your application… Enjoy your journey towards a vibrant online presence!
