UK grants for startups and small businesses in 2024-5
- Lorna Hunte
- Nov 21, 2024
- 2 min read

Grants provide critical resources to reduce financial strain, foster innovation, and promote inclusivity, allowing solopreneurs and micro-businesses to thrive. For more details, exploring regional councils and organisations like the Federation of Small Businesses can provide tailored guidance and resources.
Business Enterprise Fund
Description: Offers grants for businesses unable to secure traditional loans.
Sectors: All sectors, with a focus on growth-oriented businesses.
Amount: £500–£250,000.
Eligibility: Businesses in the North East of England.
Access Details: Business Enterprise Fund.
Deadline: Ongoing.
2. Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme
Description: Covers costs of upgrading to gigabit-capable internet connections.
Sectors: Technology, rural businesses, and home-based ventures.
Amount: Up to £3,500.
Eligibility: Rural businesses.
Access Details: Government Portal.
Deadline: Until funds are exhausted.
3. Innovate UK SMART Grants
Description: Funds innovative projects with high growth potential.
Sectors: Science, engineering, digital technology, and other innovative fields.
Amount: £25,000–£2 million, covering up to 70% of project costs.
Eligibility: UK-based businesses of any size.
Access Details: Innovate UK.
Deadline: Quarterly rounds.
4. UnLtd Starting Up Award
Description: Supports social impact startups in their first year.
Sectors: Social enterprises addressing societal issues.
Amount: Up to £8,000.
Eligibility: Startups established in the past 12 months.
Access Details: UnLtd.
Next Round Opens: July 1, 2024.
5. Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs)
Description: Offers region-specific grants and business development support.
Sectors: Varies by region; typically manufacturing, services, and technology.
Amount: £5,000–£50,000 (varies by region).
Eligibility: Businesses in specific regions.
Access Details: LEP Network.
Deadline: Varies regionally.
6. National Lottery Community Fund
Description: Funds community-focused business projects.
Sectors: Social enterprises, charities, and community-driven initiatives.
Amount: £10,000–£500,000.
Eligibility: UK-based community-focused businesses.
Access Details: National Lottery.
Deadline: Ongoing.
7. Prince’s Trust Enterprise Programme
Description: Provides financial help and training for young entrepreneurs.
Sectors: All industries.
Amount: Up to £5,000.
Eligibility: Entrepreneurs aged 18–30, unemployed or underemployed.
Access Details: Prince’s Trust.
Deadline: Ongoing.
8. E-Business Support Programme
Description: Supports digital transformation.
Sectors: Technology, digital marketing, and cybersecurity.
Amount: Up to £10,000 in-kind support (training, software, etc.).
Eligibility: Businesses in Bexley and Greenwich.
Access Details: Contact local councils.
Deadline: Ongoing.
9. The Black Business Network
Description: Financial and developmental support for Black-led businesses.
Sectors: All industries with a focus on equity and innovation.
Amount: Up to £50,000.
Eligibility: Black-owned businesses in the UK.
Access Details: Black Business Network.
Deadline: Varies.
10. Growth Impact Fund
Description: Loans and grants for social enterprises tackling critical issues.
Sectors: Housing, social care, and sustainability.
Amount: £50,000–£1 million.
Eligibility: Social enterprises focused on social and environmental impact.
Access Details: Growth Impact Fund.
Deadline: Ongoing.
For additional grants and updates, check platforms like the Federation of Small Businesses and local council websites for tailored regional support.
Can't find what you're looking for? Try our Access Package to all 332 local councils in England
Comments