shadow shadow shadow shadow shadow
    Last update 16/08/2024

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

    Edinburgh, a dynamic hub for entrepreneurs and innovators, offers a wealth of financial support to help startups and small businesses flourish. This guide details various grants and government-backed loans available and provides advice on how to secure these resources effectively.

     

    Grant and Loan Programs

    Grants

    • Creative Scotland Open Fund
      Supports a broad range of creative projects and organizations in Scotland, including those based in Edinburgh. Learn more.

    • Prince's Trust Enterprise Programme
      Offers grants and support to young people aged 18-30 starting their own businesses in Edinburgh and across Scotland. Explore details.

    • Scottish EDGE Fund
      Provides funding and support to businesses with high growth potential in Scotland, including Edinburgh-based enterprises. Find out more.

    Government-Backed Loans

    • Start-Up Loans Scotland
      Offers government-backed personal loans from £500 to £25,000, along with 12 months of free mentoring support, for individuals starting or growing a business in Scotland. Read more.

    • East of Scotland Investment Fund
      Provides match-funded loans of up to £50,000 for businesses that have a viable commercial proposal but are unable to secure full funding from conventional sources.

    • Recovery Loan Scheme
      Offers government-backed loans between £25,001 and £2 million to support businesses of any size in recovering and growing post-COVID-19.

     

    Key Resources

    • Business Gateway Edinburgh
      Your local point of contact for business advice and support, guiding you through funding options and application preparation. Visit Business Gateway Edinburgh.

    • Edinburgh City Council - Business Support
      Provides information on various business support programs and funding opportunities specific to Edinburgh. Explore Edinburgh City Council's business support.

    • Find Business Support
      The Scottish Government's website allows you to search for funding and support programs based on your location and business needs. Search for funding.

    Edinburgh City Council Contact Information

    • Website: Edinburgh City Council
    • Phone: +44 131 200 2000
    • Email: Contact forms are available on the council website.

     

    Advice on Applying

    • Contact Business Gateway Edinburgh: Begin by consulting their advisors to identify the most suitable funding options.

    • Understand Eligibility Criteria: Make sure your business qualifies for the funding opportunities by thoroughly reviewing the requirements.

    • Prepare a Compelling Application: Include a detailed business plan, and financial projections, and explain the impact of the funding on your business.

    • Meet Deadlines: Ensure your applications are submitted before the deadline; late submissions are typically not accepted.

    • Seek Additional Support: Use the help of business advisors or consultants for your application or business plan.

     

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    1. How can I apply for the Creative Scotland Open Fund?

      • Visit their website or contact Business Gateway Edinburgh for application guidelines and assistance.
    2. What support does the Prince's Trust Enterprise Programme offer?

      • It provides grants, mentorship, and resources to young entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses.
    3. What is the maximum funding available through the Scottish EDGE Fund?

      • Funding can vary; check their website or contact them directly for current limits and application details.
    4. Who is eligible for Start Up Loans Scotland?

      • Individuals in Scotland looking to start or expand a business within the first 24 months of operation.
    5. What are the terms for loans from the East of Scotland Investment Fund?

      • These are match-funded loans, typically with competitive interest rates and terms based on the business plan and financial health.
    6. How do I apply for the Recovery Loan Scheme?

      • Detailed application procedures and criteria can be found on the scheme's official website or through Business Gateway Edinburgh.
    7. Can I apply for multiple grants and loans?

      • Yes, depending on the eligibility criteria, businesses can apply for multiple grants and loans if they meet the specific requirements for each.
    8. What is needed in a business plan for these applications?

      • A business plan should include a clear description of your business, market analysis, financial projections, and how the funding will be used.
    9. Are there specific sectors prioritized for funding in Edinburgh?

      • While many sectors are eligible, there may be a focus on innovation, technology, creative industries, and sustainability.
    10. Who can help me with financial projections for my application?

      • Business Gateway Edinburgh offers workshops and advisory services to help with financial planning and projections.

     

    This guide aims to help you navigate the funding landscape in Edinburgh, providing you with the necessary tools and information to apply successfully. For further assistance or personalized guidance, reach out to Business Gateway Edinburgh or consult the Edinburgh City Council's business support pages.

     

    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