🚀 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 Eastbourne, UK


    🔹 Introduction

    Eastbourne supports small businesses via government-backed loans, local business start-up programmes, county-wide grants, and advisory services. The LEAP programme and East Sussex Growth Hub deliver tailored mentoring and event-led support.


    🔹 Government‑Backed Loans

    Start‑Up Loans (British Business Bank)


    🔹 Local Support & Programmes

    LEAP Business Start-Up Programme


    East Sussex County Council Business Grants


    East Sussex Growth Hub


    🔹 Regional & Sector Support

    Edeal Enterprise Agency


    🔹 How to Access Support

    1. Clarify your goal—start-up loan, LEAP programme, county grants

    2. Check eligibility—LEAP (resident or <1 yr trading), loans (UK resident), ESCC funds (county-wide)

    3. Prepare materials—business plan, forecasts, quotes

    4. Apply:

      • Start‑Up Loans via GOV.UK

      • LEAP via Edeal (Eventbrite launch on 13 May)

      • ESCC grants via East Sussex portal

      • 1‑2‑1 support via Growth Hub/Edeal

    5. Engage—actively attend workshops/events

    6. Follow-up promptly—respond to mentors and advisors


    🔹 Additional Tips


    🔹 Contact & Further Information


    âť“ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

     

    🔹 Can I get a loan to start a business in Eastbourne?
    Yes—Start‑Up Loans from £500 to £25,000 at fixed 6%, including mentoring, via GOV.UK.

     

    🔹 What is the LEAP programme?
    Free start-up programme funded by Council and UKSPF, featuring workshops, mentoring, plus a £500 business plan grant (edealgroup.org).

     

    🔹 Who can apply for LEAP?
    Residents or businesses trading <12 months in Eastbourne.

     

    🔹 Are there county grants available?
    Yes—East Sussex County Council offers rural, stalled-site, investment, and other funds via East Sussex Business Grants (Lewes and Eastbourne Councils, eastsussex.gov.uk).

     

    🔹 Can I access free business coaching?
    Yes—through East Sussex Growth Hub and Edeal, offering workshops, diagnostics, and 1-to-1 sessions (eastbourneunltd.co.uk, Lewes and Eastbourne Councils).

     

    🔹 How do I stay informed about new schemes?
    Subscribe to EBC newsletters, Growth Hub updates, and join the Chamber for early alerts.

     

    🔹 Can I apply for multiple supports?
    Absolutely—as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each scheme.

     

     

     

     

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