Funding Opportunities in Bridgend: Grants & Loans for Startups & Small Businesses

Bridgend County Borough Council, with a strong focus on economic development, offers an array of financial support options for startups and small businesses within its jurisdiction. Whether you're in the early stages of launching your venture or seeking to expand your operations, explore the grants and government-backed loans available to fuel your ambitions.

Grant and Loan Programs:

Grants:

Business Development Grant: This grant supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Bridgend County Borough to diversify, decarbonise, and grow, contributing to creating a vibrant and strong local economy. It provides 50% of eligible capital project costs. The minimum grant is £5,000, and the maximum grant available is £25,000 (excluding VAT).
- Business Development Grant

Government-Backed Loans:

Start-Up Loans: Provides government-backed personal loans and mentoring for new businesses.
- Start Up Loans
Development Bank of Wales: Offers various loan and equity investment options to support Welsh businesses at different growth stages.
- Development Bank of Wales

Key Resources:

Business Wales: The Welsh Government's business support service provides information and guidance on funding, starting, and growing a business.
- Business Wales
Bridgend County Borough Council - Business and Investment Support: The council's website offers details on local business support programs, including funding opportunities.
- Bridgend County Borough Council - Business and Investment Support

Bridgend County Borough Council Contact Details:

Phone: 01656 643643
Website: Bridgend County Borough Council

Advice on Applying:

Contact Business Wales or Bridgend County Borough Council: Reach out to these entities for guidance on the most suitable funding options for your business and assistance throughout the application process.
Eligibility is Key: Thoroughly review the specific criteria for each grant or loan program. Ensure your business aligns with the program's focus areas and fulfils all the eligibility requirements before proceeding with your application.
Prepare a Standout Application: Craft a comprehensive and compelling application, including a robust business plan, realistic financial projections, and a clear articulation of how the funding will fuel your business growth and contribute to the local economy.
Respect Deadlines: Stay informed about application deadlines and ensure timely submission. Late applications are typically not considered.
Seek Expert Advice: Don’t hesitate to seek assistance from business advisors or consultants if you require support in preparing your application or fine-tuning your business plan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Business Development Grant?
- The Business Development Grant supports SMEs in Bridgend to diversify, decarbonise, and grow by covering 50% of eligible capital project costs, with grants ranging from £5,000 to £25,000.
Who is eligible for the Business Development Grant?
- SMEs located within Bridgend County Borough that are looking to diversify, decarbonise, or grow are eligible to apply.
How can I apply for Start Up Loans?
- You can apply for Start Up Loans through the official website, where you can also access mentoring support and detailed guidance.
What does the Development Bank of Wales offer?
- The Development Bank of Wales offers a range of loan and equity investment options to support Welsh businesses at various stages of growth.
How can Business Wales assist me?
- Business Wales provides a wealth of information and guidance on funding, starting, and growing a business, including personalized advice and support.
Where can I find more information about business support in Bridgend?
- More information can be found on the Bridgend County Borough Council’s business support webpage.
Are there any specific grants for technology or innovation in Bridgend?
- The Business Development Grant can be used for various purposes, including technology and innovation, provided the project aligns with the grant’s objectives.
What documentation is required for applying for these grants and loans?
- Typically, a robust business plan, financial projections, and a detailed project outline are required. Specific documentation may vary by program.
Can I apply for multiple grants simultaneously?
- It depends on the specific rules of each grant program. It’s advisable to check with the fund administrators or seek guidance from Business Wales.
What support is available for startups specifically?
- Startups in Bridgend can benefit from the Start-Up Loans program, Business Development Grant, and additional support from Business Wales.

By leveraging these funding opportunities and resources, entrepreneurs and small business owners in Bridgend 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