Funding Opportunities in Dundee: Grants & Loans for Startups & Small Businesses

Dundee, a city celebrated for its vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, offers a range of financial support mechanisms designed to propel the growth and innovation of startups and small businesses. Here’s a detailed look at the grants and government-backed loans available to support your business endeavours in Dundee.

Grant and Loan Programs

Grants

Dundee SME Development Grant
This grant provides up to £3,000 to assist small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Dundee with expenses related to research and development, innovation, digital transformation, net-zero measures, and infrastructure improvements.
Learn more about the Dundee SME Development Grant

Government-Backed Loans

Small Business Finance (Dundee) Limited (SBFD)
SBFD offers loans ranging from £5,000 to £25,000 at fixed interest rates, with repayment terms of 2 to 5 years, to support small business financing needs in Dundee.
Explore Small Business Finance (Dundee) Limited
Start-Up Loans Scotland
Provides government-backed personal loans from £500 to £25,000, accompanied by 12 months of free mentoring support, aimed at individuals starting or expanding a business in Scotland.
Apply for Start Up Loans Scotland

Key Resources

Business Gateway Dundee & Angus
Your primary source for local business advice and support, helping you navigate through funding options and application processes. Ensure to engage with their advisors early in your planning stage to maximize your potential for successful funding acquisition.
Dundee City Council - Business Support
Offers a wealth of information on business support programs and funding opportunities tailored specifically to Dundee’s business community. Detailed information and resources can be accessed through the Dundee City Council’s official website.
Find Business Support
This Scottish Government platform enables searching for various funding and support programs based on your location and business needs, ensuring you find the most suitable support available.
Search for funding on Find Business Support

Dundee City Council Contact Information

Website: Dundee City Council
Phone: +44 1382 434000
Email: Contact forms are available on the council’s website.

Advice on Applying

Contact Business Gateway Dundee & Angus: Start by engaging with their business advisors who can offer tailored advice and guide you through the funding landscape.
Understand Eligibility Criteria: Thoroughly review the eligibility requirements for each funding opportunity to ensure your business qualifies before you apply.
Prepare a Compelling Application: Develop a clear, well-documented business plan and financial projections that articulate the potential impact of funding on your business.
Meet Deadlines: Submit all applications before the specified deadlines. Late submissions may lead to disqualification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What costs can the Dundee SME Development Grant cover?
- It covers costs associated with R&D, innovation, digital transformation, and more.
Who is eligible for the Small Business Finance loans?
- Small businesses in Dundee need financial assistance for growth and operational stability.
How do I apply for a Start Up Loan in Scotland?
- Visit the Start Up Loans website and follow the application process outlined there.
Can I combine different grants and loans for one project?
- Yes, depending on specific program rules, you may combine multiple sources of funding for a single project.
What kind of support does Business Gateway Dundee & Angus provide?
- They offer business advice, planning tools, and application guidance for various funding programs.
How long does it take to receive funding after application approval?
- Timing can vary by program, but typically it takes several weeks to a few months post-approval.
Are there specific sectors that receive priority for funding in Dundee?
- While open to all sectors, priority may be given to projects that align with regional economic goals such as digital transformation and net-zero initiatives.
What if my application is denied?
- Seek feedback and consider reapplying in the future or explore alternative funding sources.
How often can I apply for these grants and loans?
- Generally, you can apply as often as new opportunities arise, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.
Where can I find workshops or seminars on funding applications in Dundee?
- Business Gateway Dundee & Angus frequently hosts workshops and seminars on these topics.

Leverage this guide to understand and access the financial support systems available in Dundee, enhancing your chances of success in your entrepreneurial ventures. For personalized guidance, directly contact Business Gateway Dundee & Angus or consult the Dundee City Council’s resources.

Value AD

CAN BE

ALTERNATIVE

INVESTMENT

What is Value Ad?

Value Ad is an innovative policy designed to foster a mutually beneficial relationship between two key groups: new businesses and service providers. This policy helps startups save significantly on essential services while enabling service providers to gain valuable traction and growth opportunities.

How is it a Win-Win Deal?

For New Businesses:

Cost Savings: Startups can save 50% to 80% on essential services such as website development and marketing. This means they don’t need to invest heavily upfront, making it easier to launch and grow their business.

Alternative Investment: The money saved through these discounts can be reinvested into other critical areas of the business, acting as an alternative investment that fuels further growth and development.

For Service Providers:

Initial Customer Base: Service providers, often tech startups themselves, can attract a significant number of initial customers by offering their services at a discounted rate. This helps them build traction and demonstrate value, which is crucial for attracting venture capital (VC) funding and other opportunities.

Marketing Efficiency: By providing affordable services, service providers do not need to spend heavily on marketing to acquire new customers. The discounted services themselves become a powerful marketing tool, bringing in customers who can spread the word and enhance the provider’s reputation.

Growth and Expansion: Attracting more customers through Value Ad helps service providers expand their client base and build long-term relationships, which can lead to increased revenue and business growth.

Alternative Investment for New Businesses:

For new businesses, the significant cost savings achieved through the Value Ad policy effectively serve as an alternative investment. Instead of spending large amounts on website development and marketing, they can leverage the affordable services provided by service providers. The saved funds can be redirected into other strategic areas of the business, enhancing overall growth and sustainability.

Benefits for Service Providers:

Service providers benefit from the Value Ad policy by gaining access to a ready pool of new customers who are drawn by the discounted rates. This initial customer base is crucial for:

Building Traction: Demonstrating product or service viability to potential investors.

Securing Funding: Enhanced customer traction and a growing user base can make the service provider more attractive to venture capitalists and other funding sources.

Market Penetration: Establishing a presence in the market quickly and efficiently without heavy marketing expenditures.

In Summary:

Value Ad is a strategic policy designed to create a win-win scenario for both new businesses and service providers. By offering significant discounts on essential services, startups can save and reinvest those savings, while service providers gain crucial initial customers and market traction. This mutually beneficial arrangement supports the growth and success of both groups, making Value Ad a powerful tool for business development and investment.

Value AD

CAN BE

ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENT