Small firms in the county are being urged to ensure they don't miss out on financial support to help them enhance their use of digital technology.

According to findings by the Federation of Small Businesses, just 40% of small business owners have used applications such as cloud services and online data storage or back-up.

But research reveals companies using customer relationship management (CRM) systems to manage their sales and customers enjoy an average 18% boost to their productivity. Businesses who adopt digital accounting software to track spending, and automatically raise invoices, also record higher sales – by an average 11%, say the Economic and Social Research Council.

Kent County Council’s cabinet member for economic development, Derek Murphy, said: “SMEs are a vital part of the Kent economy, contributing jobs and to growth, so it is in all our interests they embrace digital technologies.

“However, we know many small businesses don’t feel confident in their own basic online skills.

“So, my message to our start-ups and entrepreneurs is ‘make the most of all the free advice available. Smarter digital ways of working will help save you time and money, drive your ambition and deliver your vision'."

KCC is urging companies to see if they are eligible for the Government's new Help to Grow: Digital scheme which offers up to £5,000 off approved digital accounting software, and CRM systems.

Launched by Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng, Help to Grow: Digital is part of a package of government innovation strategy projects designed to help UK businesses expand and thrive.

In addition, the scheme's website offers free practical advice on how digital technology can boost productivity.

To see if you are eligible, click here. Or contact the Kent and Medway Growth Hub.

Meanwhile, the South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP) is running Adapting with Digital and Starting and Succeeding in Business programmes that offer free workshops and one-to-one help, as well as a grant of £500-£2,000 to spend on online adaptations. Click here to find out more.

Small businesses, sole traders and freelancers looking to harness creative technologies to innovate can also register for a series of free workshops with the Hi3 Network, whose partners include Creative Folkestone, Canterbury Christ Church University, and Maidstone Television Studios.

The sessions show how virtual reality, animation and more can put enterprises ahead of the curve and you can sign up here.