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    Last update 21/07/2025

    2025 Grants and Loans for Small Businesses in Fife, UK


    Introduction

    Are you a new entrepreneur or a small business owner in Fife? Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, a range of grants and government-backed loans is available in 2025 to support your goals.

    This guide will walk you through local and national funding opportunities, application advice, and key resources to help you succeed.


    Available Grants

    ๐Ÿ”น Fife Start-Up Grant


    ๐Ÿ”น SME Development Grant (formerly Business Efficiency Grant)


    ๐Ÿ”น Fife Investment Fund

    • Purpose: Interest-free, repayable grants for business growth and low-carbon initiatives.

    • Amount: Up to £10,000

    • Eligibility: SMEs in Fife aiming to invest in growth or reduce emissions.

    • Apply: Via Business Gateway Fife – https://www.investfife.co.uk


    Government-Backed Loans

    ๐Ÿ”น Start-Up Loans (UK-wide)

    • Amount: £500 to £25,000

    • Interest: 6% fixed

    • Term: 1–5 years

    • Support: Includes 12 months of free mentoring

    • Eligibility: UK residents 18+, trading less than 3 years

    • Apply: https://www.startuploans.co.uk


    ๐Ÿ”น Business Loans Scotland

    • Purpose: Gap funding for growth-stage SMEs

    • Amount: £25,000 to £250,000

    • Eligibility: SMEs unable to secure full funding through traditional means

    • Apply: https://www.bls.scot


    ๐Ÿ”น Scottish Loan Scheme

    • Purpose: Growth funding for established Scottish businesses

    • Amount: £250,000 to £2 million

    • Eligibility: Businesses with at least 2 years’ trading history

    • Apply: https://www.scottish-enterprise.com


    Local Council Support


    Eligibility Guidance

    • Use the GOV.UK Grant Finder Tool to search for national and sector-specific funding
      ๐Ÿ”— https://www.gov.uk/business-finance-support

    • Contact Business Gateway Fife for personalised funding advice

    • Check Scottish-specific schemes such as Youth Business Scotland and the Scottish National Investment Bank


    Application Process

    1. Contact Business Gateway Fife for guidance

    2. Prepare a business plan, financial forecast, and required documents

    3. Complete the relevant application form (online or via advisor)

    4. Submit before the deadline

    5. Await a funding decision

    6. For grants: spend, then claim

    7. For loans: accept terms and begin repayment plan

    8. Take advantage of any mentoring or training included


    Additional Tips

    • Mentoring & Support: Many programmes include free mentoring—use it.

    • Digital Tools: Use resources from Start-Up Loans and Business Gateway.

    • Networking: Platforms like https://www.gmaxcard.com/business-networking offer valuable local connections.

    • Sector Focus: Priority often goes to businesses tackling Net Zero, digitalisation, or export growth.


    Contact & Further Information


    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    ๐Ÿ”น Can I apply for more than one grant or loan?
    Yes. As long as you meet eligibility requirements, you can apply for multiple programmes.

     
    ๐Ÿ”น What is covered by the Fife Start-Up Grant?
    Eligible startup costs such as tools, licences, insurance, and stock.

     
    ๐Ÿ”น Who qualifies for the SME Development Grant?
    Fife-based SMEs working with Business Gateway on innovation, digital, or sustainability projects.

     
    ๐Ÿ”น What is included in a Start-Up Loan package?
    Funding of up to £25,000 plus free mentoring and business resources.

     
    ๐Ÿ”น Can I still apply if I missed a deadline?
    Contact Business Gateway Fife for information on future rounds or alternatives.

     
    ๐Ÿ”น Is mentoring available after I receive funding?
    Yes—mentoring is built into most Start-Up Loan schemes and some local programmes.

     
    ๐Ÿ”น Are there any sector-specific funding options?
    Yes. Special schemes may exist for green energy, digital tech, hospitality, and youth-led startups.

     
    ๐Ÿ”น What documents do I need for a loan or grant application?
    Business plan, financial forecast, proof of identity, and trading details.

     
    ๐Ÿ”น How can networking help me secure funding?
    Building local connections can improve credibility, lead to collaborations, and boost application strength.

     

     

     

     

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