How it affects business rates and other discounts
If some state aid has already been granted
If some state aid has been received by the business in the past, but does not exceed the de minimis limit, then a partial business rate discount may be granted up to the de minimis threshold. You will need to provide details so that we can work out the award.
Business groups
The de minimis threshold applies to the entire business enterprise, which includes the parent company and any subsidiaries.
Alternative state aid exemption or notification
Organisations that have received state aid under an alternative state aid exemption or notification do not need to list this in the de minimis declaration. Only aid provided under the de minimis regulations in the current fiscal year and the two previous fiscal years needs to be declared.
Responsibility for state aid problems
If illegal state aid was provided through the business rate discount then - as the body administering that element of the package - we would be responsible for recovering the money from the business that received it (with compound interest).
Conversion rate
The Commission's reference exchange rate is used is used to calculate the discount, as it is or was on the day that the aid is granted. The reference rates can be found on the European Commission website.
Other discretionary reliefs
Any other discretionary relief provided to the business must be taken into account in applying the de minimis levels.
De minimis aid for businesses in enterprise zones
The assumption is that as long as de minimis aid is given in compliance with the regulation, it is at such a level that it will not distort the market. There are currently no Enterprise Zones within Greater Manchester.