🚀 Apply for £10k+ grants with our Startup Launch Kit
shadow shadow shadow shadow shadow
    Last update 20/07/2025

    2025 Grants and Government‑Backed Loans in Bradford, UK


    Introduction

    Bradford offers a wide range of support for startups and small businesses in 2025, including local and national grants, government-backed loans, and free business advisory services.

    This guide helps you navigate all major opportunities currently available in the Bradford area.


    Available Grants


    🔹 UK Shared Prosperity Fund (Bradford Allocation)
    Purpose: Supports local business growth, digital adoption, community projects, and green innovation.
    Amount: Typically between £5,000 – £50,000+, depending on project type.
    Eligibility: Bradford-based SMEs and community organisations.
    Apply: https://www.bradford.gov.uk/regeneration/uk-shared-prosperity-fund/


    🔹 Bradford City of Culture 2025 Grants
    Purpose: Funds creative and cultural projects aligned with Bradford’s City of Culture activities.
    Eligibility: Open to cultural groups, social enterprises, and artists.
    Apply: https://bradford2025.co.uk/about/investing-in-the-future/


    🔹 Local Innovation & Growth Grants (via Invest in Bradford)
    Purpose: Helps startups and growing SMEs access equipment, expand premises, or launch new projects.
    Amount: £1,500 to over £300,000 (match funding may apply).
    Apply: https://www.investinbradford.com/business-support/


    Government‑Backed Loans


    🔹 Start-Up Loans
    Amount: £500 – £25,000
    Interest: Fixed ~6% APR
    Includes: Free business mentoring (12 months)
    Eligibility: UK residents aged 18+, trading less than 3 years
    Apply: https://www.startuploans.co.uk


    🔹 British Business Bank Finance
    Purpose: Offers Start-Up, Scale-Up and Innovation finance options.
    Apply: https://www.british-business-bank.co.uk


    Local Council Support


    🔹 Bradford Council Business Support
    Description: Advice on funding, regulation, skills development and grants.
    Website: https://www.bradford.gov.uk/business/help-for-businesses/business-support/


    🔹 Invest in Bradford
    Description: A council-backed team helping businesses access finance, office space, and tailored growth advice.
    Website: https://www.investinbradford.com


    Eligibility Guidance



    Application Process


    1. Identify your business need and type of support required

    2. Review eligibility criteria on the relevant website

    3. Prepare key documents:

      • Business plan

      • 2+ supplier quotes

      • Proof of address and ID

      • Financial forecasts

    4. Submit your application online or via email

    5. Attend any workshops or interviews (if requested)

    6. Await a funding decision (usually within 2–8 weeks)

    7. Receive funds and start your project


    Additional Tips


    • Be early – some schemes close quickly once funds are allocated

    • Join networks like https://www.gmaxcard.com/business-networking for referrals and advice

    • Consider alternative finance, like angel investors or crowdfunding

    • Ensure you meet all reporting obligations post-funding


    Contact & Further Information


    Bradford Council Business Support
    📍 https://www.bradford.gov.uk/business/help-for-businesses/business-support/
    📞 01274 431000

    Invest in Bradford
    📍 https://www.investinbradford.com/business-support/


    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


    🔹 What types of grants are available in Bradford?
    Bradford offers UKSPF grants, cultural funding for 2025, and business innovation grants via Invest in Bradford.


    🔹 Am I eligible for a Start-Up Loan?
    Yes, if you’re aged 18+ and your business has been trading under 3 years.


    🔹 Where do I apply for City of Culture funding?
    Via the Bradford 2025 site: https://bradford2025.co.uk


    🔹 How do I write a business plan?
    Templates and help are available from Start-Up Loans or via local support like Invest in Bradford.


    🔹 Is match funding always required?
    Not always, but many schemes (e.g. innovation grants) may require you to contribute a percentage.


    🔹 Can I apply to more than one funding programme?
    Yes, as long as the funding bodies allow it and you meet the criteria for each.


    🔹 Are grants taxable?
    Yes — they’re usually treated as business income. Speak to an accountant.


    🔹 What if my application is rejected?
    Ask for feedback, make improvements, and reapply or consider alternative schemes.


    🔹 Is there free mentoring available?
    Yes — Start-Up Loans and Invest in Bradford offer mentoring and advice.


    🔹 Can networking really help my business?
    Absolutely. Building local connections can lead to partnerships, referrals, and funding insights. Try https://www.gmaxcard.com/business-networking


     

     

     

     

    We use cookies and similar technologies that are necessary to operate the website.Please read our cookie policy.

    We use cookies and similar technologies that are necessary to operate the website. Additional cookies are only used with your consent. We use the additional cookies to perform analyses of website usage and to check marketing measures for their efficiency. These analyses are carried out to provide you with a better user experience on the website. You are free to give, deny, or withdraw your consent at any time by using the "cookie settings" link at the bottom of each page. You can consent to our use of cookies by clicking "Agree". For more information about what information is collected and how it is shared with our partners, please read our cookie policy.

    • Required to run the website
    • Monitoring website usage and optimizing the user experience
    • Evaluation of marketing actions
    • Storage of your preferences from previous visits
    • Collecting user feedback to improve our website
    • Recording of your interests in order to provide customised content and offers
    Cookie Settings Accept