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Last update 16/08/2024

Funding Opportunities in Antrim & Newtownabbey: Grants & Loans for Startups & Small Businesses

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is committed to fostering economic growth by offering various financial support options for startups and small businesses. Whether you're in the early stages of launching your business or looking to expand, explore the grants and government-backed loans available to help you succeed in the region.

Grant and Loan Programs:

Go For It Programme: Provides expert mentoring and support for individuals exploring a business idea or in the early stages of starting a business. Go For It Programme.
Start-Up Loans: Government-backed personal loans and mentoring for new businesses. Start Up Loans.

Key Resources:

Go For It Programme: Offers free expert advice and support to aspiring entrepreneurs in Northern Ireland. Go For It Programme.
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council - Business Support: The council’s website provides information on local business support programs, including funding opportunities. Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council - Business Support.
Invest Northern Ireland: The regional economic development agency provides information on various funding programs and business support initiatives. Invest Northern Ireland.

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Contact Details:

Phone: 028 9034 0000
Email: business.support@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
Website: Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council

Advice on Applying

Contact Go For It or the Council: Reach out for personalized guidance on the most suitable funding options for your business and assistance with the application process.
Eligibility is Crucial: Thoroughly review the specific criteria for each program to ensure your business meets all requirements before applying.
Prepare a Thorough Application: Include a well-structured business plan, detailed financial projections, and a clear explanation of how the funding will support your business growth and benefit the local economy.
Meet Deadlines: Be mindful of application deadlines and ensure you submit your applications on time.
Seek Expert Advice: If needed, seek assistance from business advisors or consultants to help with preparing your application or refining your business plan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What types of funding are available in Antrim and Newtownabbey?

Funding options include grants through the Go For It Programme and government-backed loans such as Start Up Loans.

2. How do I apply for the Go For It Programme?

Applications can be made through the Go For It Programme website, which offers mentoring and support for new business ideas.

3. What is covered by the Start Up Loans?

Start-Up Loans provide government-backed personal loans and mentoring support for new businesses. Start Up Loans.

4. How do I find more information about local business support programs?

Visit the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council - Business Support page for details on local programs and funding opportunities.

5. What should I include in my application for these funding opportunities?

Your application should include a well-structured business plan, detailed financial projections, and a clear explanation of how the funding will benefit your business and the local economy.

6. Are there specific deadlines for applying for these grants and loans?

Yes, each program may have its own deadlines. Check the specific deadlines for each grant or loan program to ensure timely submission.

7. Can I get assistance with preparing my application?

Yes, you can seek help from the Go For It Programme or the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s business support team for assistance with your application.

8. How can I stay updated on new funding opportunities?

Stay informed by regularly visiting the council’s business support page, subscribing to relevant newsletters, and contacting local business support organizations.

9. Are there other resources available for business support in the area?

In addition to the listed programs, additional resources and support initiatives may be available. Check with the council and business support agencies for the latest information.

10. How do I contact the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council for business support?

You can contact the council by phone at 028 9034 0000, email at business.support@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk, or visit their website for more information.

By leveraging these funding opportunities and resources, entrepreneurs and small business owners in Antrim and Newtownabbey can gain the support and guidance they need to thrive.

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