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    Last update 02/08/2025

    2025 Grants and Loans for Start‑ups and Small Businesses in Boston, UK


    Introduction

    While Boston Borough Council does not directly offer grants or loans for new businesses, it plays a key role in connecting local entrepreneurs to valuable funding sources. This guide highlights the best funding options for 2025, including local business grants, government-backed loans, and practical support to help your business start or grow.


    Available Grants


    Grants4Growth – Capital Business Grants

    • Purpose: Helps Boston-based SMEs invest in growth, equipment, and productivity upgrades.

    • Amount: Between £1,000 and £25,000, covering up to 50% of project costs.

    • Eligibility: Open to SMEs operating in the Boston area. Projects must align with business growth and improvement goals.

    • Status: Open for applications (first come, first served).

    • Apply via: https://grants4growth.sholland.gov.uk


    UK Shared Prosperity Fund – Community & Business Projects

    • Purpose: Offers capital grants for projects that benefit local areas and communities in Boston.

    • Amount: Up to £50,000 depending on the scope and impact.

    • Eligibility: Includes community organisations and small businesses with district-wide impact.

    • Deadline: Current round closes 6 August 2025.

    • More info: https://www.boston.gov.uk/article/23066/Local-Growth-and-Grant-Funding


    GRASSroots Grants – Lincolnshire Community Foundation

    • Purpose: Supports grassroots community organisations and micro social enterprises.

    • Amount: Up to £24,999 (capital or revenue).

    • Eligibility: Must benefit Boston Borough residents.

    • How to apply: Contact Lincolnshire Community Foundation or check parish newsletters for local deadlines.


    Government‑Backed Loans


    Start Up Loans (British Business Bank)

    • Amount: Up to £25,000 per founder.

    • Rate: Fixed interest (~6%), repayable over 1–5 years.

    • Support: Includes free mentoring and business guidance for 12 months.

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

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


    Business Support Services


    Business Lincolnshire Growth Hub

    • What they offer:

      • Free expert advice and diagnostics

      • Help with applying for grants and loans

      • Sector-specific workshops and growth masterclasses

    • Who it's for: Start‑ups and growing SMEs in Greater Lincolnshire, including Boston.

    • Website: https://www.businesslincolnshire.com


    Boston Borough Council – Local Support

    • Offers guidance on:

      • Business rates relief

      • Planning and licensing

      • Referrals to the BEST Growth Hub and Let’s Do Business Finance

    • More info: https://www.boston.gov.uk


    Eligibility Guidance


    • Grants4Growth and UKSPF: You must operate in Boston Borough, be a registered SME, and contribute match funding (usually 50%).

    • Start Up Loans: Available to individuals with a viable business plan and no adverse credit history.

    • Community grants: Targeted at community-led or social enterprises with demonstrable local benefit.


    How to Apply


    1. Identify the right funding based on your business goal (startup capital, growth project, community impact).

    2. Check eligibility carefully—especially location, trading history, and match funding requirements.

    3. Gather your documents, including:

      • Business plan and cash flow forecast

      • Proof of trading or registration

      • Quotes for work or purchases

      • Bank details

    4. Submit your application online via the appropriate portal.

    5. Follow up with any additional documentation if requested.

    6. Wait for a decision, which may take 4–8 weeks depending on the scheme.


    Tips for Success


    • Register for updates from Boston Borough Council and Grants4Growth to be notified of funding rounds.

    • Use the Business Lincolnshire Growth Hub to get personalised advice and mentoring.

    • Keep all documents organised—especially proof of match funding, receipts, and progress photos (for capital projects).

    • Network locally via https://www.gmaxcard.com/business-networking to meet other founders and access collaboration opportunities.


    Contact Information


    Boston Borough Council
    Economic Development Team
    📞 01205 314200
    📧 info@boston.gov.uk
    🌐 https://www.boston.gov.uk


    Business Lincolnshire Growth Hub
    📞 Via website contact form
    🌐 https://www.businesslincolnshire.com


    FAQs about Grants and Loans in Boston

     
    🔹 Are there any grants for tech or online businesses in Boston?
    While there are no tech-specific grants, the Grants4Growth and UKSPF schemes can support digital or tech-driven businesses if the project meets their criteria.

     
    🔹 How much funding can I apply for?
    Grants range from £1,000 to £50,000, depending on the scheme. Start Up Loans go up to £25,000.

     
    🔹 Can I apply if I haven’t started my business yet?
    Yes—Start Up Loans are designed for pre-start and early-stage businesses. Grants typically require some trading history.

     
    🔹 Can I apply for more than one funding programme?
    Yes, provided you meet the eligibility criteria and funding is used for separate purposes. Always check subsidy limits.

     
    🔹 Are application fees required?
    No—grant applications are free. Start Up Loans have interest but no upfront fees.

     
    🔹 Can I use the funding for staff wages or rent?
    Start-up loans may be used for operating costs like wages and rent. Most grants fund capital improvements or growth projects.

     
    🔹 Where can I get help with my application?
    Contact the Business Lincolnshire Growth Hub or the Economic Development Team at Boston Borough Council for free assistance.

     

     

     

     

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