The Enterprise Minster has said his department will continue to listen to local businesses and consider further changes to its support schemes.
Questions remain over whether existing measures go far enough to help businesses manage rising costs and improve productivity.
The commitment was made by Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston MHK in response to a written question from Ramsey MHK Mr Hooper.
Mr Hooper asked what support is available for businesses in sectors including construction, retail, hospitality and personal services, and whether similar schemes in Jersey had been examined.
Looking to Jersey?
In his reply, the Minister said the Department already offers a range of schemes designed to help businesses improve efficiency, reduce costs and increase sales.
However, he stressed that the Department is open to refining or expanding this support in response to feedback from the business community.
Mr Johnston said officers had met with counterparts in Jersey to review the £10 million-a-year “Better Business” package delivered through Jersey Business.
While much of the support available there is similar to that already offered in the Isle of Man, he said the Department remains committed to hearing directly from local businesses about where further help may be needed.
Strike a Balance
He added that any changes would need to strike a balance between providing additional support and avoiding the risk of distorting the market.
The Minister also highlighted that support for businesses extends beyond Enterprise Department schemes.
He pointed to funding available through the Department of Education, Sport and Culture, which supports vocational skills training, including fully funded apprenticeships, employer incentive payments and support for standalone training for employees.
The response comes amid ongoing concerns from some businesses about operating costs, staffing pressures and maintaining footfall, particularly in retail and hospitality sectors.
