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    Last update 20/07/2025

    2025 Grants and Loans for Small Businesses in North Tyneside, UK


    Introduction

    North Tyneside Council supports startups and small businesses with a range of government-backed loans, local grants, and tailored support schemes. This guide outlines what’s available in 2025, how to apply, and where to get help.


    Government‑Backed Loans

    🔹 Start‑Up Loans

    • Loan value: £500 – £25,000

    • Interest rate: Fixed at approximately 6% APR

    • Includes: 12 months of free mentoring

    • Eligibility: UK residents aged 18+, trading for less than 3 years

    • Apply: https://www.startuploans.co.uk


    🔹 British Business Bank Offers


    🔹 Recovery Loan Scheme

    • Purpose: Supports business recovery from the COVID-19 impact

    • Note: While central support has ended, similar support may continue via the British Business Bank or combined authorities


    Local Support and Grants

    🔹 North Tyneside Business Support / The Business Factory


    🔹 Shop Front Improvement Scheme (North Shields)

    • Grant value: Up to £2,500 for façade improvements

    • Coverage: North Shields town centre & NW wards

    • Funding source: Shared Prosperity Fund via North East Combined Authority (The Business Factory, my.northtyneside.gov.uk)

    • Apply & info: North Tyneside Council business support pages


    🔹 North East Combined Authority / Former LEP Funds

    • North East Investment Fund: Loans to support capital growth projects, totalling ~£58 m to date (my.northtyneside.gov.uk, NECA)

    • North East Growth Hub: Regional funding & finance support via Growth Hub (NECA)


    How to Find the Right Funding

    • Define your need: Clarify purpose (startup, expansion, equipment)

    • Research schemes: Browse the national GOV.UK grants, regional LEP/CA funds, and council support

    • Check eligibility: Confirm your business meets the criteria

    • Create a strong plan: A solid business plan is essential

    • Seek guidance: Contact The Business Factory, Growth Hub, or a qualified advisor


    Application Process

    1. Find suitable schemes via The Business Factory or GOV.UK.

    2. Compile documentation: Business plan, forecasts, cost quotes (min. 2), proof of ID/address.

    3. Submit application online or via email.

    4. Attend support sessions like workshops or 1:1 mentoring.

    5. Await decision (typically 2–8 weeks).

    6. Receive funding, complete your spend, and submit receipts and monitoring forms.

    7. Report outcomes, especially for grants, usually up to 12 months post-award.


    Additional Tips

    • Explore networking via https://www.gmaxcard.com/business-networking

    • Consider alternative funding: crowdsourcing, angel investors, venture capital

    • Stay updated: Check the council and NECA announcements for new schemes

    • Match funding required: Especially for Shared Prosperity and shop-front grants


    Contact & Further Information


    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

     

    ▫️ What loans are available in North Tyneside?
    Start‑Up Loans (£500–£25,000 with mentoring) and regional loan schemes via the British Business Bank or NECA.

     

    ▫️ What local grants can I apply for?
    Shop Front Improvement Scheme (up to £2,500) and area-based SP7F grants via The Business Factory.

     

    ▫️ What is The Business Factory?
    A North Tyneside Council programme offering free support, mentoring, workshops and retail space (North East Growth Hub, NECA, North East Growth Hub, The Business Factory, northtyneside.gov.uk, my.northtyneside.gov.uk, my.northtyneside.gov.uk, GOV.UK).

     

    ▫️ Who qualifies for the shop-front grant?
    Businesses in North Shields centre and nearby wards; applications processed first come, first served (my.northtyneside.gov.uk).

     

    ▫️ How do I access North East Investment Fund loans?
    Apply through Growth Hub/NECA-linked channels for capital projects and job creation (NECA).

     

    ▫️ What documents are required to apply?
    Typically: business plan, forecasts, cost quotes, ID, proof of address, and project evidence.

     

    ▫️ How long before I hear back?
    Expect 2–8 weeks, depending on the type of funding and panel schedules.

     

    ▫️ What if my application is rejected?
    Seek feedback, refine your application, and explore alternative sources.

     

    ▫️ Can I get mentoring for my startup?
    Yes—mentoring is included with Start‑Up Loans and through The Business Factory.

     

    ▫️ Are green or carbon-reduction grants available?
    Yes—check The Business Factory and council pages for carbon-reduction awards (my.northtyneside.gov.uk).

     

    ▫️ Is match funding required?
    Some schemes, including shop-front and SP7F grants, require match funding.

     

    ▫️ Can I combine a loan and a grant?
    Yes, combining funding sources is often possible if eligibility conditions are met.

     

    ▫️ Where can I find national funding options?
    Visit GOV.UK business finance support: https://www.gov.uk/business-finance-support (businesscloud.co.uk, GOV.UK, NECA, North East Growth Hub).

     

     

     

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