Grants and Funding for Business

Find Finance Online

The Finpoint Business Finance Finder is an online platform that allows businesses to get in front of hundreds of banks, alternative finance lenders and equity investors with just one simple online application.

Funders can view and express an interest in your anonymous application, and you then decide who you would like to discuss the opportunity with. Start your application online.
 

Finance Opportunities from the FSE Group

The FSE Group is committed to developing and delivering finance packages for the growth of both SMEs and social enterprises.  Attracting a mix of public and private investment, they provide a range of finance solutions that can be tailored to the needs of their customers.

Offering loans and equity investments covering a range of £25,000 to £1million, their specialist fund managers combine their commercial track record with impact objectives to recognise and nurture true growth potential. 

For more information visit the FSE Group website.
 

Business Asset Vehicle and Equipment Finance

Newbury-based Thames Valley Asset Finance (TVAF) offers a range of business finance solutions for sole traders, partnerships, LLPs and limited companies.  For more information please visit the TVAF website.
 

Funding for Rural Businesses

Rural businesses across Berkshire can access a share of  £720,000 of funding being made available to grow companies and create jobs in rural communities.

If your company is rurally-based and requires funding to develop and grow, this rural funding could be a significant step towards achieving your plans. We are inviting applications for capital investments to create jobs and grow rural micro and small businesses in the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) area. Priority will be given to projects to:

• implement new technologies
• implement processes or equipment to improve productivity to allow farm businesses to diversify into non-agricultural activities
• construct and develop workshops, factories and other premises
• facilities where there is clear evidence of need and demand

There is also specific funding for businesses that will develop and grow tourism in rural areas through infrastructure, attractions, events, festivals and high quality accommodation.

More information on the funding and how to apply is available on the Thames Valley Berkshire LEP website.
 

Innovate UK (formerly known as Technology Strategy Board)

Offers funding, business support and networking platforms to help boost technology and innovation. You can find out more about Innovate UK on the UK Research and Innovation website.
 

Start-Up Loans

Anybody living in the UK and who is at least 18 years old at the time of registration can apply for a Start Up Loan, even if they have already started a business. These loans are intended for start-ups, so they must not have been trading for longer than 24 months to access the loans.  Their website has registration details and further information.