1. What Are Business Starting Grants?
Business starting grants are non-repayable funds offered to help new businesses launch and grow. These grants come from government bodies, councils, charities, or private initiatives and often target innovation, job creation, or social impact.
2. Why Apply for a Business Grant?
Grants can help fund:
- Equipment and tools
- Marketing and branding
- Office or retail space
- Research and development
- Business advice or training
They offer financial support without debt, giving startups breathing room to grow.
3. Start Up Grants vs. Start Up Loans
- Grants: Do not require repayment and usually have specific usage terms
- Loans: Must be repaid with interest but are more flexible
Apply for both to maximise funding without increasing financial risk.
4. UK Government Start Up Grant Schemes
The UK government offers several key programmes:
- New Enterprise Allowance (NEA): For unemployed entrepreneurs
- Innovate UK Grants: For tech or science-led startups
- UK Shared Prosperity Fund: Administered locally for regional development
Check GOV.UK or your local LEP (Local Enterprise Partnership) for eligibility.
5. Local Council and Regional Business Grants
Many councils offer start-up grants:
- Warwickshire Town Centre Business Grant
- Leeds Business Support Grant
- South East Business Boost
Amounts vary from £500 to £5,000+ and are often linked to job creation or business development.
6. Prince’s Trust Enterprise Programme
For entrepreneurs aged 18–30, this offers:
- Business training
- Start-up grants
- Mentoring and advice
It’s a popular route for young business owners and creatives.
7. Creative, Arts, and Culture Grants
If you’re in the creative sector, apply for:
- Arts Council England Grants
- Creative Scotland Funding
- BFI Support for Film Startups
These grants support freelancers, artists, and media startups.
8. Green Business and Environmental Grants
For startups with a sustainability mission:
- Green Recovery Challenge Fund
- Local clean energy or low carbon business grants
- Councils often offer recycling, energy efficiency, or eco-startup support
9. Female Entrepreneur Grants
UK schemes aimed at women include:
- Women in Innovation Awards (Innovate UK)
- Enterprise Nation’s She Means Business
- Local grants for female founders in underserved communities
10. Social Enterprise Start-Up Grants
If your business has a social mission:
- UnLtd Social Enterprise Grants
- Big Society Capital
- SSE (School for Social Entrepreneurs)
These provide funding, coaching, and networks.
11. Rural and Agricultural Business Grants
Farmers and rural startups may qualify for:
- Countryside Stewardship Funding
- Farming Innovation Programme
- Local rural development grants (check with DEFRA or local councils)
12. How to Apply for Business Starting Grants
- Research eligibility and deadlines
- Create a compelling business plan
- Prepare financial forecasts
- Explain the grant’s impact on your community or economy
- Follow up if you don’t hear back
Keep documentation clear and professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to repay a business starting grant?
No, grants are non-repayable, but they often come with conditions on usage or progress reporting.
Can I apply for more than one grant?
Yes, if the grants don’t conflict. Always check terms.
How much can I get from a business grant?
Most grants offer between £500 and £50,000 depending on scope, location, and industry.
Are business grants competitive?
Yes. Demand is high, so a strong application with clear goals and impact is essential.
Can I use a grant to pay myself?
Some grants allow limited founder compensation; others focus on business costs like equipment or hiring.
Where do I find the latest grants?
Check GOV.UK, local council sites, your LEP, and trusted business networks or advisors.
Conclusion
Business starting grants can give your new venture a vital financial boost without the burden of repayment. Whether you’re a young entrepreneur, launching a social enterprise, or innovating in a niche market, there’s likely a grant tailored to your goals. Do your research, apply with confidence, and start your business journey fully supported.