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    Last update 21/07/2025

    2025 Funding Opportunities in Edinburgh: Grants & Loans for Startups & Small Businesses


    Introduction

    Edinburgh is a thriving hub for entrepreneurs and innovators. In 2025, a diverse range of grants, loans, and expert support services—both local and national—are available. This guide will help you navigate the best funding options and how to apply successfully.


    Available Grants

    🔹 City of Edinburgh Council Start‑Up Business Support Grant


    🔹 Creative Scotland Open Fund


    🔹 Prince’s Trust Enterprise Programme

    • Purpose: Provides grants, mentoring, and support to entrepreneurs aged 18–30.

    • Eligibility: Young people starting a new business in Scotland.

    • Apply via: Business Gateway Edinburgh or the Prince’s Trust website.


    🔹 Scottish EDGE Fund

    • Purpose: Awards finance and support to high-growth potential businesses.

    • Eligibility: Early-stage ventures in Scotland, including Edinburgh.

    • Apply via: https://edgefund.co.uk


    Government‑Backed Loans

    🔹 Start‑Up Loans (UK‑Wide)


    🔹 East of Scotland Investment Fund


    🔹 Recovery Loan Scheme

    • Purpose: Loans to support recovery and growth post-pandemic.

    • Amount: £25,001–£2 million

    • Eligibility: UK businesses of any size.

    • Apply via: Banks or accredited finance providers under the scheme.


    Key Resources


    Eligibility Guidance


    Application Process

    1. Initial Consultation: Book a session with Business Gateway Edinburgh.

    2. Check Eligibility: Review the criteria for each program.

    3. Prepare Documents: Business plan, forecasts, and quotes.

    4. Apply: Submit via online portal or advisor.

    5. Decision: Expect responses within 10–12 weeks.

    6. Implementation: Use grant funds or draw down a loan.

    7. Support: Utilise mentoring and training included.


    Additional Tips

    • Use the mentoring from Start-Up Loans and Prince’s Trust.

    • Explore networking opportunities—try platforms like https://www.gmaxcard.com/business-networking.

    • Focus on innovation, digital, sustainability, or creative elements in your applications to increase success.


    Contact & Further Information


    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    🔹 How do I apply for the City of Edinburgh Start-Up Grant?
    Contact a Business Gateway Edinburgh adviser to begin your application process.

     
    🔹 What does the Creative Scotland Open Fund cover?
    Creative projects across media, design, digital, and R&D, with grants up to £100,000 (The City of Edinburgh Council, Funding Scotland, findbusinesssupport.gov.scot, waspsstudios.org.uk, Get into Theatre).

     
    🔹 Am I eligible for the Prince’s Trust programme?
    If you’re aged 18–30 and starting a business in Edinburgh/Scotland, yes.

     
    🔹 What are Start-Up Loans' terms?
    Loans up to £25,000 at 6% fixed interest, repayable over 1–5 years, with mentoring (Wikipedia).

     
    🔹 Is there a local loan fund in Edinburgh?
    Yes—the East of Scotland Investment Fund offers match-funded loans up to £50,000 (The City of Edinburgh Council).

     
    🔹 What is the Recovery Loan Scheme?
    A national government-backed loan for COVID recovery and growth (£25k–£2m).

     
    🔹 Can I apply for multiple programmes?
    Yes—so long as your business meets eligibility and can justify the funding mix.

     
    🔹 Are mentoring and advice included?
    Yes—most schemes include mentoring support through Business Gateway or Start-Up Loans.

     
    🔹 What documents do I need?
    A business plan, financial forecasts, project quotes, proof of ID, and trading details.

     

     

     

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