1. Government Start Up Grants (Local Authority Schemes)
Many UK councils and local enterprise partnerships (LEPs) offer startup grants for specific business types or areas. These grants often cover:
- Equipment purchases
- Digital upgrades
- Business premises costs
- Training or marketing expenses
Eligibility depends on location and sector—check with your local authority for updates.
2. The Prince’s Trust Enterprise Programme
For entrepreneurs aged 18–30, this national scheme offers:
- Business training and mentoring
- Access to grants and low-interest loans
- One-to-one guidance for planning and setup
Ideal for young people seeking to become self-employed.
3. Innovate UK Smart Grants
These government-backed grants support innovative products or services with commercial potential. Ideal for tech, science, or research-based startups.
Key points:
- Funding ranges from £25,000 to £1 million+
- Requires a detailed business proposal
- Highly competitive but high impact
4. Arts and Creative Sector Grants
If your business operates in design, art, or creative media, consider:
- Arts Council England grants
- British Film Institute (BFI) funds
- National Lottery Project Grants
These are typically project-based and can fund events, product development, or exhibitions.
5. Green Start Up Grants
With sustainability high on the UK agenda, eco-focused businesses can access funding for:
- Carbon reduction projects
- Recycling and waste management
- Energy efficiency tools
Schemes include Low Carbon Workspaces and various local council initiatives.
6. Sector-Specific and Inclusive Funding
Some grants target specific demographics or industries, including:
- Women in Innovation Awards
- Black Business Fund
- Food and farming grants via DEFRA
- STEM-based female entrepreneur programs
These often come with mentoring, training, and support in addition to funding.
7. Crowdfunded Grant Competitions and Charities
Non-government organisations also offer startup grants. Look for:
- UnLtd (social enterprise support)
- Aviva Community Fund
- Shell LiveWIRE (for sustainable entrepreneurs)
These are highly competitive and sometimes involve pitching your idea or winning public votes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a grant to start a business in the UK?
Yes. There are several public and private grants available, but eligibility and amounts vary by scheme.
Are startup grants repayable?
No. Grants are not loans—they do not require repayment, though recipients may need to report progress.
How do I apply for a startup grant?
Most require a business plan, projected financials, and a clear explanation of how the funds will be used.
Is there a deadline to apply for startup grants?
Some are rolling; others have strict deadlines or operate in funding rounds. Always check current timelines.
Can I get a grant and a loan?
Yes. You can combine a grant with a startup loan, provided the grant terms don’t restrict co-funding.
Do I need to be registered to apply for a business grant?
Yes. You typically need to be registered as a sole trader or limited company and have a UK business bank account.
Conclusion
Finding a grant to start a business can jumpstart your entrepreneurial journey without adding financial strain. Whether you’re a young innovator, creative professional, or sustainability-focused founder, UK grants provide invaluable support to turn ideas into reality in 2025.