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    Last update 24/07/2025

    2025 Grants and Loans for Small Businesses in West Dorset, UK

    Launching or growing a business in West Dorset? This comprehensive 2025 guide details grants, loans, and support programmes available—complete with verified links and improved readability.


    Available Grants

    Support is now provided by Dorset Council through regional and national funding streams.

    🔗 Grants and funding for businesses – Dorset Council
    This page includes current opportunities such as:


    🔗 Dorset Growth Hub

    Offers tailored support, including workshops, mentoring, and grant advice.

    🔗 Dorset Growth Hub – Business Support


    Government‑Backed Loans

    🔹 Start‑Up Loans (National Scheme)

    • Loan up to £25,000 per founder

    • Fixed low interest rate and flexible 1–5-year terms

    • Includes free mentoring

    🔗 Start-Up Loans – Official Site


    🔹 Business Finance Support Finder (GOV.UK)

    Customise searches for grants, loans, and equity funding using this centralised tool.

    🔗 Business Finance Support Finder


    Regional Support Programmes

    🔹 Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP)

    Supports business growth through:

    • Funding advice and referrals

    • Innovation and skills support

    🔗 Dorset LEP – Business Support


    🔹 Dorset Growth Hub

    A practical first stop for funding advice, mentorship, and grant showcase events.

    🔗 Dorset Growth Hub – Get Support


    Local Council Support

    Dorset Council offers business assistance, licensing support, and can help you find funding tailored to West Dorset.

    🔗 Business support – Dorset Council
    📞 01305 221000
    📧 enquiries@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk


    Eligibility Guidance


    Application Process

    1. Define your funding needs (amount, purpose)

    2. Identify suitable funding schemes

    3. Write a strong business plan with projections

    4. Apply through official platforms

    5. Submit documentation—business plan, forecasts, ID

    6. Stay engaged—respond promptly to follow-up queries


    Additional Tips

    • Network effectively—use local events, Gmax Card, and peer groups
      🔗 Gmax Card – Networking Platform

    • Subscribe to newsletters from Dorset Council, LEP, Growth Hub

    • Attend informational sessions on funding and growth strategies


    Contact & Further Information


    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

     
    🔹 Does Dorset Council provide direct business grants?
    Yes – through business productivity, rural, and community schemes listed on their grants page.
     

    🔹 How much can I borrow from Start‑Up Loans?
    Up to £25,000 per founder, at a fixed interest rate with optional mentoring.
     

    🔹 Where can I find the best funding fit?
    The Business Finance Support Finder is ideal for tailored discovery.
     

    🔹 What is Dorset LEP’s role?
    They offer funding referrals, innovation guidance, and workforce development support.
     

    🔹 Why is a business plan essential?
    It proves your business case, financial viability, and planned use of funds.
     

    🔹 Can networking really help with funding?
    Yes – connections often lead to partnerships, grant insights, and shared success.
     

    🔹 What elements should my business plan cover?
    Include your idea, market analysis, goals, forecasts, and funding need breakdown.
     

    🔹 Are there support networks in West Dorset?
    Yes – Dorset Growth Hub, LEP, and networking platforms like Gmax Card.
     

    🔹 How do I apply for a Start‑Up Loan?
    Apply via Start‑Up Loans, uploading your plan and documents.
     

    🔹 How do I stay on top of new funding?
    Follow Dorset Council, LEP, Growth Hub, and GOV.UK updates, and subscribe to their alerts.
     


     

     

     

     

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