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    Last update 21/07/2025

    Grants & Government‑Backed Loans for Startups & Small Businesses in Harlow

    Harlow Council doesn't offer direct grants or loans but provides guidance and signposting to key funding opportunities and support services available to local entrepreneurs.


    šŸ’· Government‑Backed Loans

    Start‑Up Loans

    Unsecured personal loans up to £25,000, with 12 months of free mentoring and business support.
    šŸ”— Apply for Start‑Up Loans


    Recovery Loan Scheme (RLS)

    Designed to support businesses recovering from COVID‑19, offering loans from Ā£25,001 to Ā£10 million per business.
    šŸ”— Learn about the Recovery Loan Scheme


    🧭 Other Local & Regional Support

    Let’s Do Business Finance

    Provides loans ranging from Ā£25,000–£100,000 to support business growth.
    šŸ”— Let’s Do Business Finance


    NWES (New Wave Entrepreneurship Services)

    Based at Harlow Enterprise Hub, NWES offers free business support, training, networking, and assistance accessing funding.
    šŸ”— NWES Harlow Enterprise Hub


    Harlow Business

    A local portal offering advice, resources, and links to business funding schemes.
    šŸ”— Harlow Business


    Harlow Council Economic Development Team

    Can provide guidance, signpost opportunities, and help with property searches for new and relocating businesses.
    šŸ”— Harlow Council Economic Development


    šŸ“Œ How to Access Support

    1. Define your business needs – clarify what funding is required for.

    2. Research each option – review eligibility, terms, and timelines.

    3. Engage early with Harlow Council’s Economic Development Team and NWES.

    4. Prepare a strong business plan – include forecasts, budgets, and funding impact.

    5. Tap into networks – connect with other local businesses for insights.


    āœ”ļø Additional Guidance

    • šŸ¦ Focus on government-backed loans, as grant options are limited locally.

    • šŸ“ˆ Build relationships with NWES and Let’s Do Business Finance for growth guidance.

    • šŸ”” Monitor funding updates via newsletters and local business groups.

    • šŸ“š Be well-prepared with documents, forecasts, and a clear purpose for the funds.


    šŸ“ž Contact Information

    Harlow Council – Economic Development Team
    šŸ“ž 01279 446611
    āœ‰ļø economic.development@harlow.gov.uk

    Let’s Do Business Finance
    🌐 via their website above

    NWES – Harlow Enterprise Hub
    🌐 via their website above

    Start‑Up Loans / Recovery Loan Scheme / British Business Bank
    šŸ”— Access via links provided above


    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

     
    ā–«ļø Does Harlow Council offer grants for businesses?
    No – they provide signposting, advice, and support to help you access external funding sources.

     
    ā–«ļø What’s the maximum I can borrow via Start‑Up Loans?
    Up to £25,000 with mentoring support included.

     
    ā–«ļø Who can access the Recovery Loan Scheme?
    Eligible businesses affected by COVID‑19 can apply for loans between Ā£25,001 and Ā£10 million.

     
    ā–«ļø What loan sizes does Let’s Do Business Finance provide?
    Typically between £25,000 and £100,000, supporting business growth.

     
    ā–«ļø How can NWES help me?
    They offer free workshops, mentoring, networking, and guidance on accessing finance.

     
    ā–«ļø Can I use a loan for operational costs?
    Yes—but always confirm eligible uses for each scheme before applying.

     
    ā–«ļø What if my funding application is rejected?
    Seek feedback, revise your business plan, or explore alternative funding (e.g., angel investors, crowdfunding).

     
    ā–«ļø How often should I check for funding updates?
    Frequently—sign up to newsletters and follow relevant local organisations and schemes.


    Utilise this guide to explore relevant business loans, regional support, and mentoring in Harlow. Engage with Harlow Council and NWES early to maximise your chances of securing the best financial support for your venture.

     

     

     

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