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    Last update 26/07/2025

    Grants and Government-Backed Loans for Startups in Tunbridge Wells

    Starting or expanding your business in Tunbridge Wells? Discover the most relevant local grants, government-backed loans, and regional support programmes available in 2025, with all links fully tested and current.


    Local Resources

    🔹 Tunbridge Wells Borough Council – Funding for Businesses

    This official council page provides guidance on local business funding, including green business grants, rural funds, and shared prosperity schemes.

    🔗 Funding for businesses – Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (Tunbridge Wells)

    You’ll find:

    • Local grant schemes via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund

    • Access to decarbonisation funding (up to £2,499 per business) (Tunbridge Wells)

    • Business advisory contacts and workshop listings


    Government‑Backed Support

    🔹 Start‑Up Loans Scheme (UK Government)

    Offers up to £25,000 in personal loans for UK-based startups with businesses under 24 months old. Includes mentoring.

    🔗 Start‑Up Loans – Official Website


    🔹 Business Finance Support Finder (GOV.UK)

    Tool to tailor your search for grants, loans, and investor finance based on sector, location, and business age.

    🔗 Business Finance Support Finder – GOV.UK


    Regional Resources

    🔹 Kent and Medway Growth Hub

    Provides comprehensive support in colleges, grants, financing, networking, and mentoring throughout Kent including Tunbridge Wells.

    🔗 Kent & Medway Growth Hub – Business Support and Finance (Ashford Borough Council, Tunbridge Wells, Kent & Medway Growth Hub)

    Funding opportunities include:


    Additional Tips for Success

    • Clarify your funding needs: state the specific amount and use case.

    • Align to eligibility: cross-check business profile with funding criteria.

    • Prepare a strong business plan: essential for both grants and loans.

    • Leverage networking opportunities: local events and platforms like Gmax Card and Growth Hub webinars help uncover funding access.

    🔗 Gmax Card – Business Networking


    Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Contact

    🔗 Tunbridge Wells Borough Council – Main Site
    📞 Phone: 01892 526121


    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

     
    🔹 Does Tunbridge Wells Borough Council offer direct grants?
    The council shares local grant schemes, including green and rural UKSPF-funded programmes, but operates primarily as a facilitator via its business portal.
     

    🔹 How much can I borrow through Start‑Up Loans?
    Up to £25,000 per applicant, with optional mentoring and flexible repayment.
     

    🔹 Where can I explore all suitable funding options?
    Use the Business Finance Support Finder on GOV.UK for tailored results.
     

    🔹 What support is available through Kent & Medway Growth Hub?
    Grant advice, growth funding programmes, workshops, and loan opportunities region-wide.
     

    🔹 What’s the West Kent Rural Grants scheme?
    A matched-funded capital grant scheme (£5k–£20k) for rural businesses across West Kent, including Tunbridge Wells borough.
     

    🔹 Why is a business plan vital for funding?
    It outlines strategy, viability, and planned use of funds—key considerations for funders.
     

    🔹 Can networking help me secure funding?
    Yes—events and peer networks frequently reveal referral-based funding and strategic partners.
     

    🔹 Are there larger loan programmes available regionally?
    Yes—for example, the Kent and Medway Business Fund offers loans between £25k and £600k.
     

    🔹 How do I apply for Start‑Up Loans?
    Visit startuploans.co.uk/apply, complete the form, and submit your plan.
     

    🔹 How do I stay informed about new grants and schemes?
    Subscribe to newsletters from the council, Kent & Medway Growth Hub, and GOV.UK.
     

     

     

     

     

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