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    Last update 02/08/2025

    2025 Grants and Loans for Small Businesses in Ashford, UK


    Introduction

    Startups and small businesses in Ashford, Kent, have access to a range of local grants, government-backed loans, and business support in 2025. This guide outlines current opportunities, eligibility, and how to apply, featuring verified links and step-by-step advice.


    Available Grants

    Ashford Town Centre Business Grants

    • Shop Improvement Grant
      Provides up to £10,000 (covering 80% of costs) for shopfront improvements, signage, repairs, accessibility upgrades, and energy-efficient renovations.

    • Empty Premises Grant
      Up to £10,000 to bring long-vacant retail units in Ashford town centre back into commercial use.

    πŸ”— Ashford Town Centre Business Grants – Full Details


    Ashford Rural Grants – Rural England Prosperity Fund

    Available for rural businesses outside Ashford town centre:

    • Rural Boost Grant: £500–£3,000 for equipment and workspace improvements

    • Rural Investment Grant: £3,000–£10,000 for startup space and commercial expansion

    • Energy Efficiency Grant: Up to £5,000 for energy-saving upgrades

    • Energy Transition Grant: Up to £15,000 for low-carbon technologies and renewable integration

    πŸ”— Rural England Prosperity Fund Grants – Eligibility & How to Apply


    Government-Backed Loans

    Start Up Loans (British Business Bank)

    • Unsecured personal loans of £500 to £25,000

    • Fixed interest at 6% APR

    • Up to £100,000 per business (if multiple founders apply)

    • Includes 12 months of free mentoring, business plan templates, and support

    πŸ”— Start Up Loans – Official Website


    Growth Guarantee Scheme (formerly Recovery Loan Scheme)

    • For SMEs needing working capital or investment

    • Loans from £25,001 to £2 million (70% guaranteed by the UK Government)

    • Available through accredited lenders

    πŸ”— Growth Guarantee Scheme – British Business Bank


    Kent and Medway Business Fund (KMBF)

    • Small Business Boost Loan: £26,000 to £99,000, 0% interest, match-funding required

    • Standard Loan: £100,000 to £600,000, 0% interest, repayable over 5 years

    • Admin fee applies (typically 10%)

    πŸ”— KMBF – Loan Schemes Overview


    Local Council Support

    Ashford Borough Council offers several resources to support entrepreneurs and small business owners:

    πŸ”— Business Grants and Support – Ashford Borough Council

    For growth-focused SMEs, ScaleUp Ashford provides expert consultancy and access to funding:

    πŸ”— ScaleUp Ashford Programme


    Eligibility Guidance


    Application Process

    1. Research eligibility for each scheme

    2. Prepare documents: business plan, forecasts, ID, and any match-funding evidence

    3. Apply through the official website (Council, GOV.UK, Start Up Loans, or KMBF)

    4. Seek guidance from support teams if needed

    5. Submit your application with supporting documents

    6. Await assessment and approval

    7. Receive funding, then start project delivery or implementation


    Additional Tips

    • Network regularly with local businesses and investors. A great resource is:
      πŸ”— https://www.gmaxcard.com/business-networking

    • Take advantage of free tools from Start Up Loans (e.g. cash-flow templates, mentoring)

    • Consider applying to multiple schemes if eligible—just check for funding restrictions


    Contact & Further Information

    πŸ“ž Ashford Borough Council Economic Development Team
    πŸ”— https://www.ashford.gov.uk/business/get-business-support
    πŸ“§ business@ashford.gov.uk
    πŸ“ž 01233 331111

    πŸ“ Kent & Medway Growth Hub
    πŸ”— https://www.kentandmedwaygrowthhub.org.uk


    FAQs

     
    πŸ”Ή Are there specific grants for tech startups in Ashford?
    No dedicated tech grants, but general schemes like the Rural and Town Centre Grants may apply to tech-based businesses if eligible.

     
    πŸ”Ή What’s the maximum funding I can get?
    Grants range from £500 to £15,000. Loans range from £500 to £600,000, depending on your business stage and chosen scheme.

     
    πŸ”Ή Can I apply before I start trading?
    Yes. Start-up loans are ideal for pre-start or early-stage businesses.

     
    πŸ”Ή What documents are required?
    You’ll typically need a business plan, cash-flow forecast, personal ID, and evidence of match funding (for some loans).

     
    πŸ”Ή How long does approval take?
    Timelines vary. Start-up loans take a few weeks. Council grants and KMBF may take longer—check directly.

     
    πŸ”Ή Can I combine multiple sources of funding?
    Yes, provided you meet each programme’s eligibility and reporting rules.

     
    πŸ”Ή Do these loans charge fees?

    • Start Up Loans: No application or admin fees.

    • KMBF Loans: Admin fees (~10%) and potential security requirements.

     
    πŸ”Ή Can funding cover salaries, rent, or running costs?
    Yes—most loans and many grants can be used for operational expenses. Always verify allowed use with the programme.

     
    πŸ”Ή Where can I get help with applications?
    Reach out to Ashford Borough Council or the Kent & Medway Growth Hub for application support and personalised guidance.

     

     

     

     

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