Funding Opportunities in Mid and East Antrim: Grants & Loans for Startups & Small Businesses

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council is dedicated to fostering a supportive environment for businesses to thrive. Discover the range of government-backed loans and grant programs designed to help startups and small businesses in the region.

Grant and Loan Programs:

Grants:

Shop Front Revitalisation Scheme: Provides grants ranging from £500 to £4,999 for eligible businesses in the town centres of Ballymena, Larne, and Carrickfergus to enhance their shop fronts and attract more customers.
- Shop Front Revitalisation Scheme for Mid and East Antrim
MEA Grants Online Hub: Offers a platform for businesses to apply for various grants administered by the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council. Details of specific grant programs and their eligibility criteria can be found on this hub.
- MEA Grants Online Hub

Government-Backed Loans:

Start-Up Loans: Provides government-backed personal loans and mentoring for new businesses in Northern Ireland.
- 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
Mid and East Antrim Borough Council - Business Support: The council's website offers details on local business support programs, including funding opportunities.
- Mid and East Antrim Borough Council - Business Support

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Contact Details:

Phone: 0300 123 1231
Website: Mid and East Antrim Borough Council

Advice on Applying:

Consult with Go For It or the Council: Reach out to the Go For It program or the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council's business support team for personalized guidance on suitable funding options and application procedures.
Eligibility is Crucial: Review the specific criteria for each program carefully to confirm 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 submit your applications promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

What is the Shop Front Revitalisation Scheme?
- This scheme offers grants to help businesses improve the appearance of their shop fronts, aiming to attract more customers to town centres in Ballymena, Larne, and Carrickfergus.
Who can apply for the Start Up Loans?
- The Start-Up Loans program is available to new businesses across Northern Ireland, providing government-backed personal loans and mentoring support.
How do I apply for grants through the MEA Grants Online Hub?
- You can apply through the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s grants portal, where you can find detailed information on the available grants and their eligibility criteria.
What types of projects are eligible for the Shop Front Revitalisation Scheme?
- Projects that enhance the exterior appearance of business properties in the eligible town centres are typically covered under this scheme.
How does the Go For It Programme support new businesses?
- The Go For It Programme provides free expert advice and support to individuals who are considering starting a business, helping them to turn their business ideas into reality.
What documentation is required to apply for these grants and loans?
- A detailed business plan, financial projections, and specific project details are usually required. Specific documentation may vary depending on the program.
Can existing businesses apply for the Start Up Loans?
- The Start-Up Loans are primarily intended for new businesses; however, certain existing businesses that meet specific criteria may also be eligible.
Where can I find more information about business support in Mid and East Antrim?
- More information can be found on the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s business support webpage.
What should I do if I need help with my application?
- You can contact the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council's business support team or the Go For It Programme for assistance in preparing your application.
Are there deadlines for applying to these programs?
- Yes, deadlines vary by program, so it's important to check the specific deadlines on the official websites or contact the organizations directly.

By leveraging these funding opportunities and resources, entrepreneurs and small business owners in Mid and East Antrim can gain the financial support and expert 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