🚀 Apply for £10k+ grants with our Startup Launch Kit
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    Last update 22/07/2025

    2025 Grants and Loans for Small Businesses in Folkestone & Hythe, UK


    🔹 Introduction

    Folkestone & Hythe District Council supports local enterprises through various national, regional, and local funding schemes—covering government-backed loans, capital grants, and expert guidance—particularly across rural areas and business hubs.


    🔹 Government‑Backed Loans

    Start‑Up Loans (British Business Bank)

    • Amount: £500–£25,000

    • Interest: Fixed 6% p.a.

    • Support: Includes free mentoring and business planning tools

    • Eligibility: UK residents aged 18+, trading under 36 months

    • Apply via: 👉 GOV.UK – Apply for a Start‑Up Loan


    🔹 Local Grants & Support

    Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF)

    Green Business Grant Scheme

    • Purpose: Helps small businesses become energy-efficient.

    • Amount: Up to £10,000 covering up to 40% of project cost.

    • Status: Applications suspended; pending assessment of April 2025 submissions (Folkestone & Hythe District Council)

    Romney Marsh Business Hub Equipment Grant

    South East Business Boost

    • Purpose: Capital growth grants for small and medium enterprises (up to 30% costs).

    • Amount: £1,000–£10,000 (Folkestone Works)

    • Eligibility: SMEs/startups in the South East (≤250 staff, <€50m turnover).

    Folkestone Community Works SME Grants

    • Purpose: Supports SMEs in Folkestone town centre & harbour areas.

    • Amount: £1,000–£7,500 (up to 40% of project cost) (Folkestone Works, Instagram, fhld.uk)

    East Kent LEADER & Kent Downs & Marshes LEADER

    • Purpose: Rural development grants for businesses, farmers, foresters, cultural and community organisations (Folkestone Works)


    🔹 Additional Regional Support

    Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce

    • Offers business support, networking, and funding signposting.

    Locate in Kent

    • Provides investment, relocation, and supply chain advisory services.


    🔹 Eligibility Guidance

    • Use the GOV.UK Business Finance & Support Finder to explore national schemes.

    • Confirm eligibility with district Council’s Economic Development team or via Folkestone Works.

    • Use DEFRA Magic Map to verify rural eligibility for REPF grants.


    🔹 Application Process

    1. Clarify your funding need – e.g., rural expansion, green upgrades, hub equipment, growth projects.

    2. Match with schemes – align needs to REPF, Green Grant, Hub grant, SE Boost, etc.

    3. Confirm eligibility – check location (rural/hub/town centre), business size, sector.

    4. Prepare your documents – business plan, cost estimates, forecasts, premises evidence.

    5. Apply – via Gov.UK, Folkestone Works, Chamber platforms, SELEP portals.

    6. Monitor & follow-up – track deadlines, submit supporting info promptly.


    🔹 Additional Tips


    🔹 Contact & Further Information


    âť“ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

     

    🔹 What grants are currently available?

     

    🔹 Who is eligible for REPF grants?
    Businesses or community groups in rural-designated areas (≤49 employees), for capital projects (Folkestone Works)

     

    🔹 How can I get the Hub Equipment Grant?
    Just sign a lease at the Romney Marsh Business Hub; grants cover fit-out and equipment (Startup Grant, Folkestone & Hythe District Council)

     

    🔹 How much can I borrow via Start‑Up Loans?
    £500–£25,000 at fixed 6% interest, with mentoring included.

     

    🔹 What is South East Business Boost?
    A growth grant offering £1k–£10k for SMEs/startups in the SELEP region, covering up to 30% of eligible capital spend (Folkestone Works)

     

    🔹 How important is a strong business plan?
    Very—essential for demonstrating financial viability and project outcomes.

     

    🔹 Can I apply for multiple grants?
    Yes—as long as you meet each scheme’s eligibility and funding rules.

     

    🔹 Where can I get help applying?
    Contact Folkestone Works, Kent Invicta Chamber, Locate in Kent, or regional Growth Hubs.

     

    🔹 Where do I begin?

    1. Clarify your project

    2. Check eligibility per scheme

    3. Connect with support teams

    4. Prepare your documents

    5. Submit application

    6. Follow up and respond swiftly

     

     

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