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    Last update 21/07/2025

    2025 Funding Opportunities in Dumfries & Galloway: Grants & Loans for Startups & Small Businesses


    Introduction

    Dumfries & Galloway is a region full of entrepreneurial promise and natural beauty. In 2025, it offers a wide range of grants, government-backed loans, and strong local support aimed at helping startups and small businesses succeed.


    Available Grants

    🔹 Enterprise Seed Fund

    • Purpose: Helps launch and grow early-stage businesses in Dumfries & Galloway.

    • Amount: Up to £3,000

    • Eligibility: New and early-stage enterprises

    • Apply via: Business Gateway Dumfries & Galloway or Council portal


    🔹 AIMS Manufacturing & Engineering Grant

    • Purpose: Supports manufacturing/engineering businesses in product development, innovation, and vocational training.

    • Amount: Varies by project

    • Eligibility: Based in Dumfries & Galloway

    • Apply via: Business Gateway Dumfries & Galloway


    🔹 SOSE (South of Scotland Enterprise) Grants

    • Purpose: Funds innovation, business growth, and community development across Dumfries & Galloway.

    • Amount: Varies depending on programme

    • Eligibility: Businesses and community groups in the region

    • Apply via: South of Scotland Enterprise


    Government-Backed Loans

    🔹 Start‑Up Loans (Scotland)

    • Amount: £500–£25,000

    • Details: Fixed interest at 6%, repayable over 1–5 years and includes 12 months of mentoring

    • Eligibility: UK residents with businesses trading under 3 years

    • Apply via: Start‑Up Loans UK website


    🔹 Business Loans Scotland (BLS)

    • Amount: £25,000–£250,000 | Typical interest around 11%

    • Term: Up to 5 years

    • Eligibility: Businesses unable to secure traditional finance

    • Apply via: Business Loans Scotland portal


    Key Resources

    • Business Gateway Dumfries & Galloway
      Local business advice, workshops, and help with funding applications.

    • Dumfries & Galloway Council – Business Support
      Comprehensive information on grants, loans, and enterprise support.

    • South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE)
      Regional funding for innovative and community-driven projects.

    • Find Business Support (Scotland)
      Nationwide funding portal tailored by region and sector.


    Eligibility Guidance

    • Start early: speak with a Business Gateway adviser to align funding with your needs.

    • Document well: prepare your business plan, financial forecasts, and project quotes.

    • Follow criteria: each programme has specific conditions based on sector, location, or business stage.


    Application Process

    1. Initial Contact – Meet with a Business Gateway adviser.

    2. Choose Funding – Match your project to grants or loans available.

    3. Prepare Paperwork – Gather plans, financials, quotes, and ID.

    4. Submit Application – Through the relevant online portal or adviser.

    5. Await Outcome – Timelines vary: typically a few weeks for grants, longer for loans.

    6. Implementation – Receive funds for grants or complete loan agreements and begin repayment.


    Additional Tips

    • Take up mentoring opportunities included with many funding programmes.

    • Attend local workshops offered by Business Gateway and SOSE.

    • Tailor your applications to highlight innovation, job creation, and regional impact.


    Contact & Further Information

    Business Gateway Dumfries & Galloway
    📞 +44 1387 260000
    Visit the Dumfries & Galloway Council business support section for up-to-date contact details.


    Dumfries & Galloway Council – Business Support
    Find grant and loan details via the council website.


    South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE)
    Visit the SOSE website for funding application information.


    Start-Up Loans UK
    Apply directly through the Start-Up Loans platform.


    Business Loans Scotland
    Access large loans through the official BLS portal.


    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    🔹 What expenses can the Enterprise Seed Fund cover?
    Startup costs, early-stage development, and project launch expenses.

     

    🔹 Who is eligible for the AIMS Grant?
    Manufacturing and engineering businesses in Dumfries & Galloway.

     

    🔹 How do I apply for a Start-Up Loan?
    Use the official Start-Up Loans Scotland website; mentoring is included.

     

    🔹 Can I apply for multiple funding streams?
    Yes—grants and loans can complement each other if eligibility allows.

     

    🔹 What is the maximum loan amount from BLS?
    Up to £250,000 for eligible businesses.

     

    🔹 Where can I get help writing my business plan?
    Free support is available via Business Gateway Dumfries & Galloway.

     

     

     

     

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