Time is running out! Latest round of business grant funding awards set to close

Businesses have until Sunday 30 June to apply to the latest round of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and UK Rural England Prosperity Fund, providing up to £20,000 of grant funding following a simple online application.

Businesses whether in town or rural locations, can apply for grants such as:

• Innovation support; purchase of new equipment; software/tech development; adaptations; automation and robotics.
• Support with Intellectual Property (IP); patents; trademarks; designs; copyrights;
• Capital funding for new machinery for new products and services.
• Grants to increase productivity, facilitate growth and exports.
• Research and development.

Dorset Council received a total of 64 applications in Round 1. 33 awards totalling over £250,000 in business support were made, with each project supported and located within the Dorset Council area.

Projects included, but were not limited to:

• A modern and low emission back-up generator for a rural food business
• Innovative machinery to promote new markets, improve sustainability and increase economic growth.
• Digital and e-commerce solutions for improved market delivery and customer participation
• Machinery to expand business growth and employability.

Applications are online with an easy save and return option.

Full details including the grant scheme, criteria, eligibility and FAQ’s can be found on the Dorset Council website, as well as information on how to apply.

Tim Hulme, Dorset Council’s Corporate Director for Assets and Regeneration, said:

“Dorset Council has been allocated just over £6 million via the UKSPF for use within the county. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK by investing in communities and places, supporting local businesses, people, and skills.”

“It’s not too late for businesses to significantly benefit via this scheme. You just fill out a simple online application form and we’ll take it from there.

“Whether you’re a start-up or have been operating for years, if you are looking at developing your business, we want to hear from you.

“We’ve got lots of information online that can help you with your application, and officers that can answer any questions you may have. But I’d strongly advise you hurry up, as this round closes in less than a week.”