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    Last update 21/07/2025

    2025 Grants and Loans for Startups & Small Businesses in East Dunbartonshire, UK


    Introduction

    East Dunbartonshire offers a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and small business owners. With a combination of grants, government-backed loans, wage subsidies, and expert advice, these programmes aim to stimulate local economic growth. This guide presents key opportunities and practical application guidance for 2025.


    Available Grants

    🔹 East Dunbartonshire Business Growth Grant


    🔹 Social Enterprise Support Fund


    🔹 East Dunbartonshire Business Start‑Up Grant


    Government‑Backed Loans & Support

    🔹 Start‑Up Loans (UK‑Wide)

    • Amount: £500–£25,000 at fixed 6% interest over 1–5 years, including 12 months’ mentoring.

    • Eligibility: UK residents aged 18+, trading under 3 years.

    • Apply via: Start‑Up Loans UK


    🔹 Wage Subsidy Scheme


    Key Resources


    Eligibility Guidance

    • Ensure your business meets each scheme’s criteria: trading duration, social enterprise status, etc.

    • Gather essential documents: business plan, financial forecasts, quotes, ID.

    • Early engagement with Business Gateway is key to eligibility and planning (startupgrant.co.uk).


    Application Process

    1. Initial Consultation
      Schedule a meeting with a Business Gateway adviser.

    2. Confirm Eligibility
      Determine which grants support your objectives.

    3. Prepare Documentation
      Create a business plan, forecasts, expense quotes, identification, and evidence of trading.

    4. Submit Application
      Via online portal or adviser referral.

    5. Await Decision
      Grants are usually processed in 2–4 weeks; loan times vary.

    6. Spend & Claim
      For grant recipients, provide receipts to claim reimbursement.

    7. Loan Acceptance
      Review and sign loan terms before starting repayment.


    Additional Tips

    • Access free mentoring through Start‑Up Loans and Business Gateway.

    • Strengthen your application by highlighting social impact, job creation, and financial sustainability.

    • Use local networking platforms like gmaxcard.com/business-networking to build business links.


    Contact & Further Information

    Business Gateway East Dunbartonshire
    📞 0141 578 8530
    🔗 East Dunbartonshire Business Growth & Start‑Up Plus


    East Dunbartonshire Voluntary Action
    đź”— EDVA Funding
    📞 0141 578 6680 | ✉️ info@edva.org (findbusinesssupport.gov.scot, East Dunbartonshire Voluntary Action, findbusinesssupport.gov.scot, Social Enterprise Support Map, startupgrant.co.uk, eastdunbarton.gov.uk, static1.squarespace.com)


    Start‑Up Loans UK
    đź”— https://www.startuploans.co.uk


    Find Business Support Scotland
    đź”— https://findbusinesssupport.gov.scot


    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    🔹 What is covered by the Business Growth Grant?
    Most expansion-related costs, but not ongoing expenses like salaries, rent, utilities, or vehicles.

     

    🔹 Who qualifies for the Social Enterprise Support Fund?
    Social enterprises delivering direct community benefit in East Dunbartonshire, either new or established.

     

    🔹 How much is available in the Start‑Up Grant?
    £500 for eligible new businesses trading under six months.

     

    🔹 What support does the Wage Subsidy provide?
    Financial assistance when hiring young residents of East Dunbartonshire.

     

    🔹 Can I apply for both grants and loans?
    Yes, you may combine funding if each meets separate objectives and eligibility conditions.

     

    🔹 What documents are required?
    Business plan, forecasts, supplier quotes, ID, proof of trading/incorporation, and adviser meeting confirmation.

     

    🔹 How long are decisions made?
    Grant decisions typically take 2–4 weeks; loan processing varies by provider.

     

    🔹 Who helps with applications?
    Business Gateway East Dunbartonshire offers fully supported guidance and mentoring.

     

     

     

     

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