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

Carmarthenshire County Council, dedicated to supporting the local economy, offers a range of financial assistance options to empower startups, small businesses, and new ventures within its borders. Whether you're embarking on your entrepreneurial journey or seeking to expand your existing business, explore the grants and government-backed loans available to fuel your ambitions.

Grant and Loan Programs

Grants:

Business Start-Up Grant: Provides up to £50,000 to support the creation of new businesses in Carmarthenshire, directly resulting in job creation and improving the local economy.
- Business Start Up Grant - Carmarthenshire County Council
Business Growth Grant: Offers up to £50,000 for established businesses in Carmarthenshire to encourage growth, expansion, and job creation.
- Business Growth Grant
Carmarthenshire Rural Enterprise Fund (CREF): Provides financial assistance to businesses and sole traders for the development of new and existing business premises in rural areas.
- Carmarthenshire Rural Enterprise Fund (CREF)
Vacant Property Fund: Provides funding to bring empty properties back into use.
Town Centre Loans Fund: Supports the regeneration and diversification of town centres.
Transforming Towns: Aims to bring empty and derelict buildings in eligible towns back into commercial use by refurbishing and repurposing them.
Ten Towns: Focuses on revitalizing ten key towns in Carmarthenshire.

Government-Backed Loans:

Start-Up Loans Wales: Provides government-backed personal loans and mentoring for new businesses in Wales.
- Start Up Loans Wales
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
Carmarthenshire County Council - Business Support: The council's website offers details on local business support programs, including funding opportunities.
- Carmarthenshire County Council - Business Support

Carmarthenshire County Council Contact Details

Phone: 01267 234567
Email: direct@carmarthenshire.gov.uk
Website: Carmarthenshire County Council

Advice on Applying

Contact Business Wales or Carmarthenshire County 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 maximum funding available through the Business Start-Up Grant?
- The Business Start-Up Grant provides up to £50,000 to support the creation of new businesses in Carmarthenshire.
Can existing businesses apply for the Business Growth Grant?
- Yes, the Business Growth Grant offers up to £50,000 for established businesses looking to expand and create jobs.
What types of properties are eligible for the Vacant Property Fund?
- The Vacant Property Fund is designed to bring empty properties back into use, focusing on commercial properties that can contribute to the local economy.
How do I apply for the Carmarthenshire Rural Enterprise Fund (CREF)?
- Applications can be made through the Carmarthenshire County Council website, where you can find more details on eligibility and required documentation.
What is the Town Centre Loans Fund?
- The Town Centre Loans Fund supports the regeneration and diversification of town centers by providing loans to businesses looking to set up or expand in these areas.
Are there any specific grants for rural businesses?
- Yes, the Carmarthenshire Rural Enterprise Fund (CREF) specifically supports businesses and sole traders in rural areas.
Can I apply for multiple grants at the same time?
- Yes, you can apply for multiple grants as long as your business meets the eligibility criteria for each program.
What support is available for town centre regeneration in Carmarthenshire?
- The Transforming Towns and Ten Towns initiatives focus on revitalizing town centres by refurbishing and repurposing empty and derelict buildings.
Is mentoring available with Start Up Loans Wales?
- Yes, Start Up Loans Wales includes up to 12 months of free mentoring support as part of the loan package.
Where can I get help with my grant application?
- Business Wales and Carmarthenshire County Council's Business Support Team can provide assistance with your application and business planning.

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