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    Last update 21/07/2025

    2025 Funding Opportunities in Argyll & Bute: Grants & Loans for Startups & Small Businesses


    Introduction

    Argyll & Bute offers breathtaking scenery and a thriving entrepreneurial spirit. In 2025, a range of grants, expert support, and government-backed loans are available to help new and growing businesses prosper.


    Grant Programmes

    🔹 Business Start-Up Grant

    • Purpose: Helps cover initial costs—equipment, marketing, and website development.

    • Amount: Up to £1,000 for full-time, £500 for part-time businesses within the first six months.

    • Eligibility: New businesses in Argyll & Bute; applications via downloadable form by email.

    • Apply via: Argyll & Bute Council’s Start-Up Grant page
      🔗 Business Start‑Up Grant – Argyll & Bute Council


    🔹 Small Business Development Grant

    • Purpose: Supports business expansion—productivity, growth, sustainability, innovation, net‑zero.

    • Amount: £1,000–£10,000 at 50% of approved costs for full‑time, up to £5,000 for part‑time operations.

    • Eligibility: SMEs in Argyll & Bute; excludes wages, debts, and routine maintenance.

    • Apply via: Council’s Development Grant portal
      🔗 Small Business Development Grant – Argyll & Bute Council


    🔹 Trade Fair, Training, Accreditation & Digital Grant

    • Purpose: Helps businesses attend trade fairs, gain accreditation, access training and digital tools.

    • Amount: Up to £1,000

    • Eligibility: Argyll & Bute businesses; funded via Business Gateway & UKSPF.

    • Apply via: Business grant portal on Council website
      🔗 Financial Support & Grants – Argyll & Bute Council


    🔹 Expert Help Consultancy

    • Purpose: Provides specialist consultancy (1–2 days) in areas like marketing, digital, finance, HR, innovation, and net‑zero.

    • Eligibility: Local businesses, supported via Business Gateway & UKSPF.

    • Apply via: Business Gateway Argyll & Bute
      🔗 Local Business Support – Business Gateway Argyll & Bute


    Government‑Backed Loans

    🔹 Start‑Up Loans (UK-wide)

    • Purpose: Personal business loans with mentoring (12 months).

    • Amount: £500–£25,000 at a fixed 6% interest, repayable over 1–5 years.

    • Eligibility: UK residents with businesses less than three years old.

    • Apply via:
      🔗 Start‑Up Loans UK


    Key Resources


    Eligibility Guidance

    • Consult early with Business Gateway to identify suitable schemes.

    • Check criteria such as trading status, geographic location, and part/full-time operation.

    • Prepare docs: business plan, financial forecasts, quotes, consultancy scope, and identification.


    Application Process

    1. Initial Meeting – Book a session with Business Gateway.

    2. Confirm Eligibility – Match your business to the right programme.

    3. Gather Documents – Business plan, supporting spreadsheets, quotes, ID.

    4. Apply Online or by Email – Use official forms and portals.

    5. Await Approval – Quick turnaround for grants; loan processing timing varies.

    6. Receive Support – Consultancy sessions or financial disbursement as approved.


    Additional Tips

    • Leverage net-zero expertise through expert help consultancy.

    • Attend workshops hosted by Business Gateway and the Council.

    • Align applications with innovation, digitisation, or sustainability for stronger chances.


    Contact & Further Information

    Business Gateway Argyll & Bute
    📞 01546 604 555 | 📧 business.gateway@argyll-bute.gov.uk
    🔗 Local Support

    Argyll & Bute Council – Financial Support
    🔗 Financial Support & Grants

    Start‑Up Loans UK
    🔗 https://www.startuploans.co.uk

    Find Business Support (Scotland)
    🔗 https://findbusinesssupport.gov.scot


    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    🔹 What can the Business Start‑Up Grant cover?
    Equipment, marketing, and website costs for businesses within their first six months.

     

    🔹 How much is available through the Development Grant?
    50% of eligible costs—£1,000–£10,000 for full-time businesses, or £5,000 for part-time.

     

    🔹 How much expert help can I access?
    1–2 days of specialist consultancy in key business growth areas.

     

    🔹 Who qualifies for Start‑Up Loans?
    UK residents with trading businesses under three years old.

     

    🔹 Can I use multiple funding streams?
    Yes—grants and loans may be combined if eligibility and fund rules align.

     

    🔹 Can I apply for expert help and a loan?
    Yes—these programmes complement each other and have separate eligibility.

     

    🔹 Who supports me through the process?
    Business Gateway provides free one-to-one advice, webinars, and workshops.

     

     

     

     

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