At any point in time, the Enterprise Advisory Service database usually holds over 3,000 types of grants available to UK businesses.
In addition to centrally managed grants, local authorities and Enterprise Zones offer incentives to new and expanding businesses.
Below is the latest list of opportunities.
The European Union currently offers a significant source of funds for businesses of all sizes with the money distributed through the European Commission. The EU administers these schemes through a service known as Structural Funds.
In the UK, companies can take advantage of two schemes; The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the European Social Fund (ESF).
The management of grants falls under the doctrine named “Call for Proposals” (CfP) that announces and processes new schemes. These CfPs cover most aspects of development under the following headings:
Not all of these will have a scheme active, and it’s best to check the current listings on a regular basis. Businesses can also search online to check the current loans and guarantees available by country.
Currently, there are the following grants available for micro businesses around the UK.
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| South East Sustainability Loan Fund | Phone: 01276 608510, Fax: 01276 608539. From £20,000 to £200,000. For start-up, early stage (seed and start-up) and Cleantech. These are structural funds using national sources of finance. |
| The East of Scotland Investment Fund | Up to £50,000 is available for expansion and growth stages. Current Eligible Sectors: Manufacturing, Construction, Wholesale, Transport and Distribution, Software Development, Farm diversification, Tourism. |
| Entrust Ltd | Phone: 0191 244 4000, Fax: 0191 244 4001. From £1,000 to £25,000. Start-up, early stage (seed and start-up). EU supports: North East Micro Loan Fund. |
| North West Business Finance | From £3,000 to £50,000. Start-up, early stage (seed and start-up). Business Finance North West supports new and established businesses that are unable to borrow from traditional lenders all or some of the finances needed. |
Funding is available from both central Government and the three regional assemblies in Scotland, Ireland and Wales. There are over one hundred different departments that offer subsistence including the following:
Each grant scheme has its unique set of criteria to determine whether a project is eligible to apply. The criteria focus on location, size of the business and the industry. Most come without major restrictions although it’s wise to check before you apply.
If you have found a grant that is applicable to you, then it’s best to take your time with your application to improve your chances of success. Here are our top 10 tips to guide you through the process.
In most cases, it’s worth spending time telephoning the Government department concerned to discuss your requirements. In some cases, there’ll be strict criteria that only a small number of businesses can fulfil.
