Funding Opportunities in Mid Ulster: Grants & Loans for Startups & Small Businesses

Mid Ulster District Council, committed to fostering a thriving business environment, offers a range of financial assistance options to support startups and small businesses within its borders. Whether you're embarking on your entrepreneurial journey or seeking to expand your operations, explore the grants and government-backed loans available to fuel your ambitions.

Grant and Loan Programs:

Grants:

Mid Ulster Town Business Spruce Up Scheme: Provides grants of up to 80% funding (maximum £4,000) to support minor internal and external improvements to eligible properties within the town centre boundaries of Dungannon, Cookstown, Magherafelt, and Coalisland.
- Mid Ulster Town Business Spruce Up Scheme

Government-Backed Loans:

Start-Up Loans: Offers government-backed personal loans and mentoring for new businesses in Northern Ireland.
- Start Up Loans

Key Resources:

Mid-Ulster District Council - Business Support: The council's website offers details on local business support programs, including funding opportunities.
- Mid Ulster District Council - Business Support
Invest Northern Ireland: The regional economic development agency provides information on various funding programs and business support initiatives.
- Invest Northern Ireland

Mid-Ulster District Council Contact Details:

Phone: 03000 132 132
Website: Mid Ulster District Council

Advice on Applying:

Contact Mid Ulster District Council or Invest NI: Reach out to the council or Invest Northern Ireland for guidance on the most suitable funding options for your business and assistance throughout the application process.
Eligibility is Key: Thoroughly review the specific criteria for each grant or loan program. Ensure your business aligns with the program's focus areas and fulfils all the eligibility requirements before proceeding with your application.
Prepare a Standout Application: Craft a comprehensive and compelling application, including a robust business plan, realistic financial projections, and a clear articulation of how the funding will fuel your business growth and contribute to the local economy.
Respect Deadlines: Stay informed about application deadlines and ensure timely submission. Late applications are typically not considered.
Seek Expert Advice: Don't hesitate to seek assistance from business advisors or consultants if you require support in preparing your application or fine-tuning your business plan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Mid Ulster Town Business Spruce Up Scheme?
- This scheme provides grants for minor internal and external improvements to eligible properties within specific town centre boundaries in Mid Ulster.
Who can apply for the Start Up Loans?
- The Start-Up Loans program is available to new businesses across Northern Ireland, providing government-backed personal loans and mentoring support.
What types of projects are eligible for the Mid Ulster Town Business Spruce Up Scheme?
- Eligible projects include improvements to the interior and exterior of business properties within designated town centres in Mid Ulster.
How do I apply for a start-up loan?
- Applications can be made through the Start Up Loans website, where you'll find detailed guidance on the process.
What documentation is required for applying to these grants and loans?
- Typically, a business plan, financial projections, and a detailed project outline are required. Specific documentation may vary by program.
Can I apply for both a grant and a loan?
- Yes, depending on the specific rules of each program, you may be able to apply for both. Contact the relevant organizations for more guidance.
Are there any specific deadlines I should be aware of?
- Deadlines vary by program, so it's important to check the specific deadlines on the official websites or contact the organizations directly.
How does Invest Northern Ireland support businesses?
- Invest Northern Ireland provides funding, expert advice, and business development support to help businesses in Northern Ireland grow and succeed.
Where can I find more information about business support in Mid Ulster?
- More information can be found on the Mid Ulster District Council’s website.
What should I do if I need help with my application?
- You can reach out to the Mid Ulster District Council or Invest NI for assistance in preparing your application.

By leveraging these funding opportunities and resources, entrepreneurs and small business owners in Mid Ulster can gain the financial support and expert guidance they need to thrive.

Value AD

CAN BE

ALTERNATIVE

INVESTMENT

What is Value Ad?

Value Ad is an innovative policy designed to foster a mutually beneficial relationship between two key groups: new businesses and service providers. This policy helps startups save significantly on essential services while enabling service providers to gain valuable traction and growth opportunities.

How is it a Win-Win Deal?

For New Businesses:

Cost Savings: Startups can save 50% to 80% on essential services such as website development and marketing. This means they don’t need to invest heavily upfront, making it easier to launch and grow their business.

Alternative Investment: The money saved through these discounts can be reinvested into other critical areas of the business, acting as an alternative investment that fuels further growth and development.

For Service Providers:

Initial Customer Base: Service providers, often tech startups themselves, can attract a significant number of initial customers by offering their services at a discounted rate. This helps them build traction and demonstrate value, which is crucial for attracting venture capital (VC) funding and other opportunities.

Marketing Efficiency: By providing affordable services, service providers do not need to spend heavily on marketing to acquire new customers. The discounted services themselves become a powerful marketing tool, bringing in customers who can spread the word and enhance the provider’s reputation.

Growth and Expansion: Attracting more customers through Value Ad helps service providers expand their client base and build long-term relationships, which can lead to increased revenue and business growth.

Alternative Investment for New Businesses:

For new businesses, the significant cost savings achieved through the Value Ad policy effectively serve as an alternative investment. Instead of spending large amounts on website development and marketing, they can leverage the affordable services provided by service providers. The saved funds can be redirected into other strategic areas of the business, enhancing overall growth and sustainability.

Benefits for Service Providers:

Service providers benefit from the Value Ad policy by gaining access to a ready pool of new customers who are drawn by the discounted rates. This initial customer base is crucial for:

Building Traction: Demonstrating product or service viability to potential investors.

Securing Funding: Enhanced customer traction and a growing user base can make the service provider more attractive to venture capitalists and other funding sources.

Market Penetration: Establishing a presence in the market quickly and efficiently without heavy marketing expenditures.

In Summary:

Value Ad is a strategic policy designed to create a win-win scenario for both new businesses and service providers. By offering significant discounts on essential services, startups can save and reinvest those savings, while service providers gain crucial initial customers and market traction. This mutually beneficial arrangement supports the growth and success of both groups, making Value Ad a powerful tool for business development and investment.

Value AD

CAN BE

ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENT