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Last update 21/07/2025

Funding Opportunities in Highland Council, UK: Grants & Loans for Startups & Small Businesses

If you're starting or growing a small business in the Highland region of Scotland, a range of grants and government-backed loans are available to support your journey. This guide outlines the most relevant financial options and how to apply successfully.

💸 Grant and Loan Programs

✅ Business Start-Up Grant

Provides up to £1,000 to individuals starting a new business in the Highland Council area.
Supports early-stage innovation and entrepreneurship.
🔗 Learn more – Business Gateway Highland

✅ Growing Business Growth Fund

Grants of up to £10,000 for established Highland businesses seeking to scale, diversify, or create jobs.
Can be used for innovation, new processes, and business expansion.
🔗 Find out more – Highland Council Business Support

🏦 Government-Backed Loans

✅ Highland Loan Fund

Offers loans from £5,000 to £100,000 to support small businesses with growth potential that are unable to access traditional finance.
🔗 Read more – Business Loans Scotland

✅ Start-Up Loans

UK-wide initiative providing personal loans of up to £25,000 for new businesses less than 24 months old, plus free mentoring.
🔗 Explore details – Start Up Loans UK

🧭 Key Resources

Business Gateway Highland
Local advisors offering tailored support, including help with funding applications.
🔗 Visit Business Gateway Highland
Highland Council Business Advice
Offers detailed information about local grants and support schemes.
🔗 Visit Funding for Business – Highland Council
Find Business Support
A Scottish Government directory of funding and business programs across regions.
🔗 Visit Find Business Support
Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE)
Offers additional support and funding for businesses across the region.
🔗 Visit HIE

🧾 Advice on Applying

Start with Business Gateway Highland: Their advisors will match you with the right grants or loans.
Understand eligibility: Check all criteria before investing time into your application.
Prepare a strong application: Include a business plan, financial forecasts, and intended use of funds.
Apply early: Deadlines can be competitive—act in advance.
Seek support: Work with local business advisors or use HIE’s guidance tools if needed.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I apply for the Business Start-Up Grant?
You can apply via Business Gateway Highland, where you'll find forms and advisor support.

What can the Growing Business Growth Fund be used for?
It can support expansion projects, job creation, innovation, or process improvements in growing businesses.

Who is eligible for the Highland Loan Fund?
Small businesses in the Highlands and Islands that show growth potential but can't secure traditional financing.

What does the Start-Up Loans scheme offer?
Up to £25,000 in personal loans, plus mentoring and support for businesses under 2 years old.

Where can I get additional business support in the Highland region?
Business Gateway Highland and Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) both offer localised, expert advice.

Are there specific grants for tourism businesses in the Highlands?
Tourism is a key sector in this region. Check the HIE website for sector-specific support.

What’s the maximum I can borrow from the Highland Loan Fund?
Up to £100,000, depending on your business needs and financial case.

How do I make my application stand out?
Provide clear financial projections, a realistic plan, and demonstrate how the funding will support growth.

Can startups apply for both grants and loans?
Yes, especially under schemes like the Start-Up Grant and Start-Up Loans, which target new ventures.

What if I miss an application deadline?
Contact the provider. Some programs reopen periodically, or advisors may suggest alternative options.

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