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    Last update 19/07/2025

    2025 Grants and Loans for Small Businesses in Kensington & Chelsea (UK-Wide Guide)


    Introduction

    Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your business, this guide outlines the most relevant grants, government-backed loans, and local support available in 2025. While focused on Kensington & Chelsea, the options listed are suitable for businesses anywhere in the UK. All links are official, current, and fully clickable.


    Available Grants

    🔹 Innovate UK Innovation Loan


    🔹 City Living, Local Life Fund (RBKC)


    🔹 NCIL Community Infrastructure Grants


    🔹 Community Chest & Estate Funds (RBKC)


    Government-Backed Loans

    🔹 Start-Up Loans (British Business Bank)


    🔹 Growth Guarantee Scheme


    🔹 Peer-to-Peer Lending & Regional Funds

    • Platforms like Funding Circle, iwoca, and Folk2Folk offer alternative finance

    • Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II supports businesses in Northern England

    • Explore:
      https://www.fundingcircle.com/uk


    Local Council Support


    Eligibility Guidance

    • Use the GOV.UK funding finder tool to explore suitable options:
      https://www.gov.uk/business-finance-support

    • Contact your local council’s business support team for borough-specific advice.

    • Most schemes require:

      • UK-registered business

      • Business plan

      • Cash flow forecast

      • Financial records or projections


    Application Process

    1. Research the grants or loans that match your business stage and location.

    2. Confirm eligibility requirements and gather necessary documents.

    3. Prepare a clear business plan and forecast (many templates on GOV.UK).

    4. Apply online via the appropriate portal.

    5. Monitor email or dashboard for decisions and follow-up actions.


    Additional Tips

    • Network actively to discover hidden local opportunities.
      Try: https://www.gmaxcard.com/business-networking

    • Mentoring can be invaluable. Both Start-Up Loans and Innovate UK offer it.

    • Use free digital resources from GOV.UK, British Business Bank, and FSB for templates, planning tools, and legal guidance.


    Contact & Further Information


    FAQs

     

    ▫️ What grants are available in Kensington & Chelsea?
    City Living, Local Life (up to £5,000), NCIL grants, Community Chest (£500), and estate improvement budgets from RBKC.

     

    ▫️ How much can I borrow from a Start-Up Loan?
    Between £500 and £25,000 per individual, up to £100,000 per business. Includes mentoring.

     

    ▫️ Can I get funding for R&D projects?
    Yes — Innovate UK loans support late-stage R&D with up to £2 million.

     

    ▫️ What is the Growth Guarantee Scheme?
    A loan guarantee programme supporting SME lending, extended in 2025.

     

    ▫️ Where can I get mentoring support?
    Start-Up Loans and Innovate UK include mentoring. You can also use networking platforms like GMaxCard.

     

    ▫️ How do I know if I’m eligible for a grant or loan?
    Use GOV.UK’s funding tool, or speak to your local council’s business support team.

     

    ▫️ What documents do I need to apply?
    Typically: business plan, proof of registration, financials, and personal ID.

     

    ▫️ Are there deadlines?
    Yes — always check the application deadlines for each scheme.

     

    ▫️ What is NCIL funding used for?
    Neighbourhood improvement projects such as local parks, streets, and safety initiatives.

     

    ▫️ Can I apply for multiple schemes?
    Yes, as long as you meet each scheme’s criteria and funding limits are respected.

     

     

     

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