Funding & support
There are various channels where small business can seek funding. Some will be low-interest loan options others maybe matched funding grants; sometimes you may find a fully-funded grant.
Depending on your age, industry sector, geography and whether you are a start-up or established business - there will be different options available. Grantfinder is a useful site to search for various criteria to find out eligibility for grants and other sources of funding.
Take a look at the following organisations that may be able to help:
Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEP)
A LEP is a locally-owned partnership between local authorities and businesses. A LEP plays a central role in deciding local economic priorities and undertaking activities to drive economic growth and create local jobs. They typically offer support to help businesses grow - through funding, workshops or free advice.
- SEMLEP - a LEP covering the South East Midlands.
- LLEP - a LEP for Leicestershire
- CWLEP - a LEP for Coventry & Warwickshire
Digital Future First
Register for free to keep up to date with funding, government initiatives and other support for your business.
Business & IP Centre Northamptonshire
The Business & IP Centre Northamptonshire supports entrepreneurs, inventors and small businesses from that first spark of inspiration to successfully launching and developing a business. We do this by running free workshops and providing information and advice sessions on self-employment and intellectual property. Download the BIPC services brochure.
Prince's Trust (for 18-30 year olds)
Shell Livewire (for start-ups, 16-30 year olds)
University of Northampton Business Support
Start-Up Loans (includes free mentor for 12 months)
Having just started networking I realise what great opportunities there are in the local area and get to meet some very interesting people and businesses.
I'm very positive that given time the fruits of my effort will pay off, so keeping my fingers crossed.
In any case, The Business Community is a very welcoming environment and not the stuffy corporate atmosphere I used to in my past life.
Geraint Williams - Fourwinds Photography Services
The Business Community is a top class networking group. The meetings are great, with a relaxed but professional feel. The members are all very supportive and Paul does a great job of keeping the meetings interesting as well as providing more than just a meeting. I would highly recommend them to anyone that is looking for networking opportunities.
Sean Clegg - Tiny Jungle
From starting my own business just over 12 months ago, the support of this network group has been amazing. It is great value for money and there are free workshops to help you build your business. I would highly recommend The Business Community.
Nicky Buckley - East Midlands HR
BusComm is a business networking group like no other. It's fun, friendly and focused. The support and advice available through the group is second to none.
I've gained business as a direct result of being a member. It has enabled me to find suppliers and contacts who have been able to help my clients.
I would highly recommend the group to anyone.
Eleanor Lester - Shrewd PR
