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    Last update 21/07/2025

    2025 Grants & Government‑Backed Loans for Startups & Small Businesses in East Ayrshire, UK


    Introduction

    East Ayrshire offers a vibrant ecosystem for entrepreneurs and small business owners. This 2025 guide details regional grants, interest-free loan schemes, wage subsidies, and expert support designed to drive economic growth locally.


    Available Grants

    🔹 East Ayrshire Council Business Support Fund


    🔹 East Ayrshire Start‑Up Grant


    🔹 East Ayrshire Recruitment Incentive

    • Purpose: Grants up to £5,000 for businesses hiring East Ayrshire residents.

    • Eligibility: Employer must hire an eligible resident; paid by East Ayrshire Council using UKSPF funds (east-ayrshire.gov.uk)

    • Apply via: Contact East Ayrshire Council's employability team—details on the Grant and funding support page.


    🔹 Ayrshire LEADER Programme


    🔹 East Ayrshire Net Zero Support Grant

    • Purpose: To help SMEs invest in energy-efficient equipment or renewable systems.

    • Amount: Covers 50% of project costs up to £3,000 (east-ayrshire.gov.uk)

    • Apply via: East Ayrshire Council’s Grant and funding support page


    Government‑Backed Loans & Support

    🔹 Start‑Up Loans (UK-wide)

    • Amount: £500–£25,000 | Fixed 6% interest | 1–5 years term

    • Support: Includes 12 months of free mentoring

    • Apply via: https://www.startuploans.co.uk


    🔹 West of Scotland Loan Fund


    🔹 Ayrshire Skills Investment Fund (ASIF)

    • Purpose: Revenue-based funding to support staff training in growth sectors.

    • Amount: Up to £1,800 per person (east-ayrshire.gov.uk)

    • Apply via: East Ayrshire Council’s Grant and funding support section


    Key Resources


    Eligibility Guidance

    • Confirm eligibility by consulting with Business Gateway Ayrshire.

    • Prepare essential documentation: business plan, proposals, financial forecasts, and identity.

    • Attend advice sessions before applying.


    Application Process

    1. Contact Business Gateway Ayrshire for a consultation

    2. Match your business to relevant funding options

    3. Gather necessary documents and draft proposals

    4. Submit your application online or via adviser

    5. Wait for a response—timelines vary by programme

    6. For grants: purchase, submit receipts, and claim reimbursement

    7. For loans: review offer, sign agreement, and begin repayment


    Additional Tips

    • Utilise free mentoring through Start-Up Loans or Business Gateway programmes

    • Attend networking events to build partnerships—try gmaxcard.com/business-networking

    • Enhance your applications with clear financial projections, community or environmental impact, and job creation details


    Contact & Further Information

    Business Gateway Ayrshire
    🔗 Local Support – Ayrshire
    ☎️ 0330 678 1611 | 📧 business@east-ayrshire.gov.uk (east-ayrshire.gov.uk, startupgrant.co.uk, findbusinesssupport.gov.scot)


    East Ayrshire Council – Business & Trade
    🔗 Support for Businesses (east-ayrshire.gov.uk, east-ayrshire.gov.uk)


    Invest East Ayrshire – Business Support
    🔗 Invest East Ayrshire (investeastayrshire.com)


    Start-Up Loans UK
    🔗 Start-Up Loans


    Find Business Support Scotland
    🔗 findbusinesssupport.gov.scot


    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    🔹 How do I apply for the Business Support Fund?
    Begin with a Business Gateway adviser to discuss your project and funding needs.

     

    🔹 What expenses does the Start‑Up Grant cover?
    Marketing, training, product development—not rent or salaries.

     

    🔹 Who qualifies for the Recruitment Incentive?
    Employers recruiting eligible East Ayrshire residents; contact via the council's business support.

     

    🔹 What sectors does the LEADER Programme support?
    Rural initiatives in innovation, environment, and tourism.

     

    🔹 Can I borrow via the West of Scotland Loan Fund?
    Yes—up to £100,000 for growth or stabilisation purposes.

     

    🔹 What is included in ASIF?
    Funding for staff training—up to £1,800 per person in key sectors.

     

    🔹 How long do funding decisions take?
    Typically, a few weeks for grants; loan times vary.

     

    🔹 Can I access mentoring?
    Yes—grants and loan schemes often include free mentoring and workshops.

     

     

     

     

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