Grants

2. What Grants Are Available?

Most national and local grants focus on particular business activities or purposes. These themes are:

2.1 Investment - there are regional grants that support growth through capital investment and job creation.

• The location of your business may increase your chances of successfully applying for a grant. You may be eligible for special grants and support if you are starting a business in an economically disadvantaged area, especially if it is one with high unemployment.These areas include those in general industrial decline, those where major traditional industries such as steel and coal have collapsed, and some rural areas and inner-city areas.
• Local support (for example, subsidised rent and rates) is often available to encourage small businesses to start up in particular areas.

2.2 Innovation - there is a wide range of grant schemes that encourage research and development (R&D) activities.

• A comprehensive range of funding is available through Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) programmes. These can offer support, from investigating an idea through to proof of concept and development. Visit www.berr.gov.uk/innovation.
• R&D grants that focus on specific industries are periodically launched (eg the Carbon Trust, DEFRA and WRAP have all launched such grants).

2.3 Energy and the environment - these schemes recognise the additional cost for businesses that adopt or engage in investments that improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

• R&D programmes are available to companies working on developing energy and environmental products.
• Grant schemes may be available for new buildings or for refurbishing existing buildings that aim to improve energy use.

2.4 Training.

• Assistance to develop the skills and capability of staff is generally provided through the Train to Gain service provided by the Learning and Skills Council. Train to Gain Skills Brokers offer impartial advice to employers to help them identify and source the training they need (0800 015 55 45, www.traintogain.gov.uk). Business Link may also be able to assist.

2.5 Exports - support is often available to businesses looking to export goods they manufacture.

• UK Trade & Investment offers funding to help exporters, as well as a range of charged-for, but subsidised, services. Contact Business Link or UK Trade & Investment (020 7215 5444).