Birmingham City Council is to manage and deliver this programme through the Working Neighbourhood Fund and in partnership with Business Link West Midlands. It offers Business Development Grants and up to 2 days impartial consultancy support to assist you in making an application. Financial Assistance provided by Birmingham City Council will include a number of business development grant options. more details can be found by clicking here or by contacting us at http://www.straightfinance.co.uk
Sc: http://www.straightfinance.co.uk
Monday, November 30, 2009
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Latest Grant Opportunities
Here is the latest update on grant and funding opportunities throughout the country. Information provided by http://www.j4b.co.uk
Last Chance For Enterprise Awards
SMEs across Cheshire only have a few more weeks left to enter an annual business competition.
Nominations for this year’s High Sheriff's Award for Enterprise must be made by 16 December.
Scottish Loan Fund Gets European Funding Boost
SMEs in the West of Scotland are set for a lending lifeline to help them kick-start the economic recovery.
The West of Scotland Loan Fund has received £6 million backing from the European Regional Development Fund as part of a £15 million plan to support up to 600 businesses over the next six years.
Women Of Worth Awards Open
Entries are being invited for a competition that looks to reward and recognise the East Midlands’ best female entrepreneurs.
The East Midlands Development Agency-backed Women of Worth Awards “celebrate the achievements of forward-thinking business women from across the region”.
New Round Of Commercialisation Funding
East Midlands-based innovators are invited to apply for funding worth up to £20,000 to help commercialise novel new technologies.
A new round of the East Midlands Technology: Pathfinder Grants programme has been launched, with SMEs and research organisations able to secure support to carry out market research into new products and processes.
If you would like further information please let me know. sc: http://www.straightfinance.co.uk
Last Chance For Enterprise Awards
SMEs across Cheshire only have a few more weeks left to enter an annual business competition.
Nominations for this year’s High Sheriff's Award for Enterprise must be made by 16 December.
Scottish Loan Fund Gets European Funding Boost
SMEs in the West of Scotland are set for a lending lifeline to help them kick-start the economic recovery.
The West of Scotland Loan Fund has received £6 million backing from the European Regional Development Fund as part of a £15 million plan to support up to 600 businesses over the next six years.
Women Of Worth Awards Open
Entries are being invited for a competition that looks to reward and recognise the East Midlands’ best female entrepreneurs.
The East Midlands Development Agency-backed Women of Worth Awards “celebrate the achievements of forward-thinking business women from across the region”.
New Round Of Commercialisation Funding
East Midlands-based innovators are invited to apply for funding worth up to £20,000 to help commercialise novel new technologies.
A new round of the East Midlands Technology: Pathfinder Grants programme has been launched, with SMEs and research organisations able to secure support to carry out market research into new products and processes.
If you would like further information please let me know. sc: http://www.straightfinance.co.uk
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
New Bio-Energy Infrastructure Grants
Farmers, foresters and local authorities can from today apply for £1.5 million grants to help develop the supply of biomass, such as wood chips or energy crops like miscanthus, in England through round three of the Bio-energy Infrastructure Scheme.
The Scheme provides grants to help the development of the supply chain required to harvest, process, store and supply biomass to heat, combined heat and power, and electricity end-users. The scheme is restricted to projects based in England and is open to businesses, local authorities and charities.
For more details see the DECC press release: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/news/pn136/pn136.aspx
The Scheme provides grants to help the development of the supply chain required to harvest, process, store and supply biomass to heat, combined heat and power, and electricity end-users. The scheme is restricted to projects based in England and is open to businesses, local authorities and charities.
For more details see the DECC press release: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/news/pn136/pn136.aspx
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Grant Information Summary
More information on business grants and funding are listed below. This is the latest listing provided for us by J4B. This week we have information on grants helping SMEs in The North West to embrace sustainable innovation; a competition for film makers; help for redundant construction apprentices and a training scheme for managers and supervisors in Wales.
more information on these schemes can be found by contacting me at mparry@straightfinance.co.uk . Alternatively follow me on Twitter
New Scheme Helps North West Firms Go Green
More than £3 million is being made available to help North West of England-based SMEs embrace sustainable innovation.
The three-year Northwest Eco-Innovation Programme will encourage hundreds of businesses to exploit the growing market for environmentally-friendly products, processes and services.
Short Film Fund Looking For “Surprising Stories”
Aspiring filmmakers can win funding from a new competition to help them shoot short documentaries about things that are “good to know”.
Four winning entrants will each scoop £2,000 from the 4Docs scheme, an initiative run by the Channel 4 British Documentary (BRITDOC) Foundation.
Subsidy Scheme To Recruit Redundant Construction Apprentices
Construction companies are being urged to take advantage of a subsidy scheme to help them recruit redundant apprentices.
The Homes and Communities Agency has joined forces with Construction Skills to promote the sector skills council’s Apprenticeship Matching Service.
Training Fund For A Winning Welsh Workforce
The Welsh Assembly Government has launched a new £37 million training scheme for managers and team leaders.
Provided as part of the Workforce Development Programme, companies can claim subsidies for their staff to take part in a series of Leadership and Management Development Workshops.
Sc: http://www.j4b.co.uk http://www.straightfinance.co.uk
more information on these schemes can be found by contacting me at mparry@straightfinance.co.uk . Alternatively follow me on Twitter
New Scheme Helps North West Firms Go Green
More than £3 million is being made available to help North West of England-based SMEs embrace sustainable innovation.
The three-year Northwest Eco-Innovation Programme will encourage hundreds of businesses to exploit the growing market for environmentally-friendly products, processes and services.
Short Film Fund Looking For “Surprising Stories”
Aspiring filmmakers can win funding from a new competition to help them shoot short documentaries about things that are “good to know”.
Four winning entrants will each scoop £2,000 from the 4Docs scheme, an initiative run by the Channel 4 British Documentary (BRITDOC) Foundation.
Subsidy Scheme To Recruit Redundant Construction Apprentices
Construction companies are being urged to take advantage of a subsidy scheme to help them recruit redundant apprentices.
The Homes and Communities Agency has joined forces with Construction Skills to promote the sector skills council’s Apprenticeship Matching Service.
Training Fund For A Winning Welsh Workforce
The Welsh Assembly Government has launched a new £37 million training scheme for managers and team leaders.
Provided as part of the Workforce Development Programme, companies can claim subsidies for their staff to take part in a series of Leadership and Management Development Workshops.
Sc: http://www.j4b.co.uk http://www.straightfinance.co.uk
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Help for Automotive Manufacturers
My colleagues at the National B2B Centre have told me about this £3.5m support package for automotive suppliers in the West Midlands struggling during the economic downturn. Automotives Initiatives was launched by West Midlands Taskforce Chair and Regional Minister, Ian Austin.
The funding, which will come from Advantage West Midlands, will help struggling component manufacturers with up to £50,000 of specialist strategic consultancy to help with business consolidation, refinancing , new product introduction and restructuring.
The Automotive Response Programme will be delivered by the Manufacturing Advisory Service in partnership with Accelerate and will look to assist more than 120 companies, ranging from SMEs to tier 1s and even local car producers. It is anticipated that this dedicated support will safeguard up to 1000 jobs in the supply chain.
Sc: www.straightfinance.co.uk
The funding, which will come from Advantage West Midlands, will help struggling component manufacturers with up to £50,000 of specialist strategic consultancy to help with business consolidation, refinancing , new product introduction and restructuring.
The Automotive Response Programme will be delivered by the Manufacturing Advisory Service in partnership with Accelerate and will look to assist more than 120 companies, ranging from SMEs to tier 1s and even local car producers. It is anticipated that this dedicated support will safeguard up to 1000 jobs in the supply chain.
Sc: www.straightfinance.co.uk
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
NISPO Grants in Northern Ireland
The Invest Growth Proof of Concept Fund is funded by Invest NI and set up as a pre-commercial grant-awarding fund. The Fund helps individuals, start-ups, micro-enterprises and SMEs to establish the commercial potential of a concept resulting from in-house research and ideas. Grants are awarded to help beneficiaries establish the commercial potential of a concept and more fully develop and test their ideas. The £3m fund will run for five years. An important aspect of the scheme is the commercial and entrepreneurial support the recipients receive through E-Synergy. These elements include: business mentoring, IP and copyright protection and advice.
www.straightfinance.co.uk
www.straightfinance.co.uk
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Index Voucher Scheme
The ever-popular Index Voucher scheme has returned for SMEs in The West Midlands.
You may be interested to hear that the latest call for Innovation Vouchers has just been announced. If successful, these will provide you with £3,000 of assistance from a university in the West Midlands.
Further information is available at http://www.innovationvouchers-wm.com/
However to give you an idea, The Innovation Voucher Scheme awards West Midland SMEs a £3,000 voucher to purchase academic support for an innovation at any of the region's 13 universities. Here are some examples of the type of activity you could use the support to undertake
Sc: http://www.straightfinance.co.uk/
You may be interested to hear that the latest call for Innovation Vouchers has just been announced. If successful, these will provide you with £3,000 of assistance from a university in the West Midlands.
Further information is available at http://www.innovationvouchers-wm.com/
However to give you an idea, The Innovation Voucher Scheme awards West Midland SMEs a £3,000 voucher to purchase academic support for an innovation at any of the region's 13 universities. Here are some examples of the type of activity you could use the support to undertake
- innovation / technology audit.
new service delivery and customer interface.
new business model development.
tailored training in innovation management.
efficiency audits, process change supply chain management and logistics.
product and service testing and economic impact assessment.
product development.
business and leadership school.
Feasibility study.
Priority will be given to businesses in the following sectors
- Health and Medical Technologies
Environmental/Energy
New Materials
Digital Media
Transport
Construction
All small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) in the West Midlands area are eligible to apply for an Innovation Voucher.
Ineligible Activities include
- Achieving compliance with statutory regulations or legislation
Intellectual property protection
Standard training courses
Software purchases
Equipment purchases
Aid that would promote / subsidise the cost of exports
Internships for students of knowledge providers
Design and production of advertising materials
Sales and marketing activities this includes standard website design, development and search optimisation (the only exception would be the exploitation of new web technology for the region and/ or industry)
Advertising and promotional activities e.g. design of posters, leaflets etc.
Accreditations
Capital items
Travel costs
Continuation and existing projects with the knowledge providers
Legal advice
Business Link Consultation
All voucher winners are required to have a free consultation with Business Link under the requirements of Solutions for Business.
If you think this might be something that you might like to apply for – and why not, drop me an email to mparry@straightfinance.co.uk
Sc: http://www.straightfinance.co.uk/
Proof of Concept Grant Imminent Closure
The popular and effective Proof of Concept grant is to close it has been announced.
Several weeks ago I predicted the closure of the Advantage West Midlands Proof of Concept Grant managed on their behalf by Univesity of Warwick Science Park. My prediction has been proved sadly correct. UWSP has recently announced its closure on their website.
Final applications must be recieved by 31st October this year after which no further applications will be accepted. This has been a very effective grant product, well managed by UWSP. It has offered much needed funds to produict developers and innovators throughout the region. I have been invoved in a number of great product initiatvies supported by this scheme and although alternatives to exist through the Research and Development grant and the Innovation Networks offering, the Proof of Concept grant will be sadly missed.
Sc: http://www.straightfinance.co.uk/
Several weeks ago I predicted the closure of the Advantage West Midlands Proof of Concept Grant managed on their behalf by Univesity of Warwick Science Park. My prediction has been proved sadly correct. UWSP has recently announced its closure on their website.
Final applications must be recieved by 31st October this year after which no further applications will be accepted. This has been a very effective grant product, well managed by UWSP. It has offered much needed funds to produict developers and innovators throughout the region. I have been invoved in a number of great product initiatvies supported by this scheme and although alternatives to exist through the Research and Development grant and the Innovation Networks offering, the Proof of Concept grant will be sadly missed.
Sc: http://www.straightfinance.co.uk/
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Business Grant Information Update
Once again thanks largely to J4B I have been able to draw up another stop press of grant information. Our network of readers and followers is now becoming truly nationwide. So I am now including information from throughout the country. Please check these notices out and click on the links provided for more information. More information will be posted as it becomes available.
New Fund Fires Up Coalfield Communities
A new £20 million fund is being set up to boost business in areas crippled by the collapse of coalmining.
Housing Minister John Healey has announced plans to set up a Coalfields Growth Fund to support new and growing small businesses in former coalfield areas.
Places Up For Grabs On American Enterprise Programme
Aspiring Scottish entrepreneurs are invited to enter a competition offering subsidised places at a prestigious Boston-based business school.
Six lucky applicants from the Highlands and Islands region will receive funding to take part in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s renowned Entrepreneurship Development Programme at the end of January.
Climate Change Cash Still On Offer
There’s still time left for Chorley-based companies to take advantage of a scheme to help them go green.
Approximately £30,000 remains up for grabs through Chorley Borough Council’s Climate Change Business Grants programme.
Multi-Million Pound Boost For Marine Energy
Government grants totalling £22.5 million are up for grabs to speed up the commercial development of wave and tidal technologies.
The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) has officially launched their Marine Renewables Proving Fund.
Closing Date Coming For Environmental Awards
There’s only a month left for businesses, schools, councils and charities to enter a prestigious competition offering cash prizes for great green initiatives.
The Ashden Awards for Sustainable Energy 2010 close to initial applications on 27 October.
Innovative Industrial Biotech Fund Launched
Up to £2.5 million funding is being made available to carry out feasibility studies into how industrial biotechnology can be used to produce high value chemicals.
The Government’s April 2009 New Industry, New Jobs report highlighted the potential impact that industrial biotechnology could have, in particular by shifting the focus of the chemical industry away from oil to one based on renewable and biological substances.
New Creative Competition Underway
A new £1 million programme to help Scottish artists team up with the wider creative industries sector has opened to applications.
First announced last month, the Vital Spark Awards is the first project to be financed by the £5 million Innovation Fund established by Creative Scotland, the new body set up to nurture the nation’s cultural and artistic talents.
Scots Given Incentive To Tell Apprentices: “You’re Hired”
Employers can receive £2,000 to recruit a redundant apprentice under a Scottish Government scheme.
Up to £1.7 million European Social Fund cash has been made available for “Adopt an Apprentice”, the first project to be supported through the Government’s skills development programme ScotAction.
Second Chance To Net Innovation Assistance
Companies in the East of England have a second chance to scoop £3,000 funding to boost their business by working alongside one of the region’s universities .
The second round of the East of England Development Agency’s Innovation Vouchers programme has opened to applications.
Source: http://www.j4b.co.uk/ http://www.straightfinance.co.uk/
MPblog3009
New Fund Fires Up Coalfield Communities
A new £20 million fund is being set up to boost business in areas crippled by the collapse of coalmining.
Housing Minister John Healey has announced plans to set up a Coalfields Growth Fund to support new and growing small businesses in former coalfield areas.
Places Up For Grabs On American Enterprise Programme
Aspiring Scottish entrepreneurs are invited to enter a competition offering subsidised places at a prestigious Boston-based business school.
Six lucky applicants from the Highlands and Islands region will receive funding to take part in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s renowned Entrepreneurship Development Programme at the end of January.
Climate Change Cash Still On Offer
There’s still time left for Chorley-based companies to take advantage of a scheme to help them go green.
Approximately £30,000 remains up for grabs through Chorley Borough Council’s Climate Change Business Grants programme.
Multi-Million Pound Boost For Marine Energy
Government grants totalling £22.5 million are up for grabs to speed up the commercial development of wave and tidal technologies.
The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) has officially launched their Marine Renewables Proving Fund.
Closing Date Coming For Environmental Awards
There’s only a month left for businesses, schools, councils and charities to enter a prestigious competition offering cash prizes for great green initiatives.
The Ashden Awards for Sustainable Energy 2010 close to initial applications on 27 October.
Innovative Industrial Biotech Fund Launched
Up to £2.5 million funding is being made available to carry out feasibility studies into how industrial biotechnology can be used to produce high value chemicals.
The Government’s April 2009 New Industry, New Jobs report highlighted the potential impact that industrial biotechnology could have, in particular by shifting the focus of the chemical industry away from oil to one based on renewable and biological substances.
New Creative Competition Underway
A new £1 million programme to help Scottish artists team up with the wider creative industries sector has opened to applications.
First announced last month, the Vital Spark Awards is the first project to be financed by the £5 million Innovation Fund established by Creative Scotland, the new body set up to nurture the nation’s cultural and artistic talents.
Scots Given Incentive To Tell Apprentices: “You’re Hired”
Employers can receive £2,000 to recruit a redundant apprentice under a Scottish Government scheme.
Up to £1.7 million European Social Fund cash has been made available for “Adopt an Apprentice”, the first project to be supported through the Government’s skills development programme ScotAction.
Second Chance To Net Innovation Assistance
Companies in the East of England have a second chance to scoop £3,000 funding to boost their business by working alongside one of the region’s universities .
The second round of the East of England Development Agency’s Innovation Vouchers programme has opened to applications.
Source: http://www.j4b.co.uk/ http://www.straightfinance.co.uk/
MPblog3009
Friday, September 18, 2009
This Week's Business Grant Digest
Welcome to this week’s grant digest courtesy of J4B. Among the highlights this week is news of funding for businesses in the Healthcare sector; property development in South Wales and help for companies who want to clean up their act throughout the UK.
Green Light For Potato Powered Plant
A Lincolnshire-based potato packing company is going green after securing a half a million pound funding fillip.
Branston Ltd has been awarded a £568,000 grant from the European Union-financed Rural Development Programme for England as part of a £1.4 million project to install an anaerobic digestion (AD) plant and improve water recycling facilities at their Lincoln site.
New Fund To Drive Forward Advances In Health Technologies
The first call for proposals has been launched from a new £100 million fund aiming to instigate innovative new products and technologies in the healthcare sector.
Over the next five years, the Department of Health and biomedical research charity the Wellcome Trust are joining forces to run the Health Innovation Challenge Fund.
South Wales Property Programme Builds Momentum
A new £27 million property development programme aiming to create top class business premises throughout South West Wales has been officially launched.
The South West Wales Property Development Fund will be led by Carmarthenshire County Council and look to help property developers carry out speculative build projects in Carmarthenshire, Swansea, Pembrokeshire and Neath Port Talbot.
Start-Ups Sought For Incubator Initiative
The Carbon Trust is on the lookout for innovative clean-tech companies to join its expanded Incubator Programme.
Through the scheme, start-up “green” businesses can get up to £70,000 worth of advice and consultancy in areas such as business development, corporate finance, product development, market research, and intellectual property protection.
Subsidised Export Event Opportunities
Northern Ireland-based businesses are urged to take advantage of a number of upcoming subsidised overseas trade visits.
The Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce is offering assistance for firms to take part in trade missions to three different countries.
Scottish Museums Set For Cash Boost
Museums Galleries Scotland has launched their annual Main Grants Scheme for 2010-11.
Through the programme, funding ranging between £5,000 and £30,000 is available to help Scottish museums and galleries carry out:
Blog: 1809
Sc: http://www.j4b.co.uk http://www.straightfinance.co.uk
Green Light For Potato Powered Plant
A Lincolnshire-based potato packing company is going green after securing a half a million pound funding fillip.
Branston Ltd has been awarded a £568,000 grant from the European Union-financed Rural Development Programme for England as part of a £1.4 million project to install an anaerobic digestion (AD) plant and improve water recycling facilities at their Lincoln site.
New Fund To Drive Forward Advances In Health Technologies
The first call for proposals has been launched from a new £100 million fund aiming to instigate innovative new products and technologies in the healthcare sector.
Over the next five years, the Department of Health and biomedical research charity the Wellcome Trust are joining forces to run the Health Innovation Challenge Fund.
South Wales Property Programme Builds Momentum
A new £27 million property development programme aiming to create top class business premises throughout South West Wales has been officially launched.
The South West Wales Property Development Fund will be led by Carmarthenshire County Council and look to help property developers carry out speculative build projects in Carmarthenshire, Swansea, Pembrokeshire and Neath Port Talbot.
Start-Ups Sought For Incubator Initiative
The Carbon Trust is on the lookout for innovative clean-tech companies to join its expanded Incubator Programme.
Through the scheme, start-up “green” businesses can get up to £70,000 worth of advice and consultancy in areas such as business development, corporate finance, product development, market research, and intellectual property protection.
Subsidised Export Event Opportunities
Northern Ireland-based businesses are urged to take advantage of a number of upcoming subsidised overseas trade visits.
The Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce is offering assistance for firms to take part in trade missions to three different countries.
Scottish Museums Set For Cash Boost
Museums Galleries Scotland has launched their annual Main Grants Scheme for 2010-11.
Through the programme, funding ranging between £5,000 and £30,000 is available to help Scottish museums and galleries carry out:
Blog: 1809
Sc: http://www.j4b.co.uk http://www.straightfinance.co.uk
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Carbon Trust Offer Big Business Refit
The Carbon Trust is set to launch a new programme they claim will help thousands of UK SMEs to reduce their energy bills by a combined £40 million. Their Big Business Refit initiative provides firms with expert advice and access to interest-free loans to replace old, inefficient equipment with new, environmentally-friendly models.
Through their long-standing Energy Efficiency Loan Scheme, the Trust offers SMEs funding ranging from £3,000 to £400,000 to upgrade their equipment.The fund currently has £100 million worth of loans available, a sum expected to help up to 3,000 businesses cut a total of £40 million off their annual energy costs.
Sc: www.straightfinance.co.uk, www.thecarbontrust.co.uk
Through their long-standing Energy Efficiency Loan Scheme, the Trust offers SMEs funding ranging from £3,000 to £400,000 to upgrade their equipment.The fund currently has £100 million worth of loans available, a sum expected to help up to 3,000 businesses cut a total of £40 million off their annual energy costs.
Sc: www.straightfinance.co.uk, www.thecarbontrust.co.uk
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Proof of Concept Success for Black Country Engineer
Good news today. I have heard from a client that the grant application that he and I have been working on for several weeks has been approved in the sum of £30,000.
My client is a small engineering company based in The Black Country. The MD has been working on a new technology to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of solar panels and their use in the domestic housing industry. Working with the client we applied for a Proof of Concept grant from Advantage West Midlands to help with the cost of IPR; a full market assessment and the further testing of his prototype to ensure the design will cope with a manufacturing process.
This is a further successful Proof of Concept application we have made on behalf of clients and I am delighted.
http://www.straightfinance.co.uk
My client is a small engineering company based in The Black Country. The MD has been working on a new technology to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of solar panels and their use in the domestic housing industry. Working with the client we applied for a Proof of Concept grant from Advantage West Midlands to help with the cost of IPR; a full market assessment and the further testing of his prototype to ensure the design will cope with a manufacturing process.
This is a further successful Proof of Concept application we have made on behalf of clients and I am delighted.
http://www.straightfinance.co.uk
Monday, September 7, 2009
Recovery Still Threatened By Banks - EEF
According to The Independent, Britain's economic recovery is still being threatened by the lack of credit on offer from banks, a leading manufacturers' organisation reports today, warning that many businesses are actually finding it harder to secure affordable finance than a few months ago.A survey conducted by the EEF said 47 per cent of firms had seen the cost of finance increase over the past two months, from 44 per cent in the second quarter and 37 per cent in the first. Only 7 per cent of manufacturers said the cost of finance was now falling.Manufacturers also found the cost of new borrowing was still rising, with banks charging both higher fees and more expensive interest rates.A third of companies added that the supply of credit had shrunk in recent weeks, though this was an improvement from the second quarter when 42 per cent of businesses warned lines of credit were dwindling. However, small firms, in particular, are being hit by the credit shortage, the EEF said.Steve Radley, the EEF's director of policy, said that despite action from policymakers, the manufacturing sector's hopes of recovery were being hampered by their credit difficulties. "Despite historically low levels of interest rates and significant intervention by the Government and the Bank of England, credit conditions remain very tight for most manufacturers," he said."Given the severe damage done to banks' balance sheets by the recession, this is likely to remain the case for some time and will dampen the recovery as meeting new orders puts increasing pressure on manufacturers' cashflow."The EEF's warning reflects increasing concern that the inability of banks to lend more to business might prevent the UK from exiting recession or, at the very least, act as a cap on the strength of the recovery.
Source: David Prosser, Business Editor, The Independent
www.straightfinance.co.uk
Source: David Prosser, Business Editor, The Independent
www.straightfinance.co.uk
New Grant Information
More grant updates and infortmation from J4B. If you would like further information please contact me on mparry@straightfinance.co.uk
Scottish Voucher Scheme Back For Second Round
A programme to encourage collaborations between Scottish SMEs and academic institutions has reopened to applications.
The first round of the Scottish Funding Council’s Innovation Voucher Scheme saw 30 businesses team up with Scottish universities to carry out projects involving the development of new products, processes and services.
£6 Million Boost Gives Textile Industry A Cutting Edge
Textile manufacturers across Yorkshire and the Humber are set to benefit from a major new European funding project.
The Textile Innovation Programme is being financed by a combined £6 million from regional development agency Yorkshire Forward and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
Innovation Grant For Energy Consultants
A Derbyshire-based sustainable energy firm has secured funding to develop a range of environmentally-friendly heating and energy systems.
East Midlands Renewable Energy Ltd (EMRE Ltd) has received a £3,000 Innovation Support Grant from the Sustainable Construction iNet, a network funded by the East Midlands Development Agency.
Retailers Call For “Fridge Scrappage” Scheme
The Government has been urged to scrap VAT on energy efficient household appliances and offer consumers incentives to trade in their fridges and washing machines for “greener” models.
Industry body the British Retail Consortium (BRC) has written to Chancellor Alistair Darling calling for more action to encourage people to switch to newer, more environmentally-friendly household appliances.
Start-Up Contest For Highlands Highflyers
Aspiring entrepreneurs from the Scottish Highlands can secure start-up support from a new awards scheme.
The UHI Millennium Institute Business Idea Competition – run by Inverness College UHI – has a total prize pool worth £2,900 available for the individuals with the best ideas for starting a new business.
for more information go to our website or email me on mparry@straightfinance.co.uk
Scottish Voucher Scheme Back For Second Round
A programme to encourage collaborations between Scottish SMEs and academic institutions has reopened to applications.
The first round of the Scottish Funding Council’s Innovation Voucher Scheme saw 30 businesses team up with Scottish universities to carry out projects involving the development of new products, processes and services.
£6 Million Boost Gives Textile Industry A Cutting Edge
Textile manufacturers across Yorkshire and the Humber are set to benefit from a major new European funding project.
The Textile Innovation Programme is being financed by a combined £6 million from regional development agency Yorkshire Forward and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
Innovation Grant For Energy Consultants
A Derbyshire-based sustainable energy firm has secured funding to develop a range of environmentally-friendly heating and energy systems.
East Midlands Renewable Energy Ltd (EMRE Ltd) has received a £3,000 Innovation Support Grant from the Sustainable Construction iNet, a network funded by the East Midlands Development Agency.
Retailers Call For “Fridge Scrappage” Scheme
The Government has been urged to scrap VAT on energy efficient household appliances and offer consumers incentives to trade in their fridges and washing machines for “greener” models.
Industry body the British Retail Consortium (BRC) has written to Chancellor Alistair Darling calling for more action to encourage people to switch to newer, more environmentally-friendly household appliances.
Start-Up Contest For Highlands Highflyers
Aspiring entrepreneurs from the Scottish Highlands can secure start-up support from a new awards scheme.
The UHI Millennium Institute Business Idea Competition – run by Inverness College UHI – has a total prize pool worth £2,900 available for the individuals with the best ideas for starting a new business.
for more information go to our website or email me on mparry@straightfinance.co.uk
Thursday, August 20, 2009
New Grant Information
Deadline Approaching For Enterprise Awards
Successful businessman Steve Morgan’s annual search for the most enterprising companies and individuals is coming to a close.
Entries to the Morgan Foundation Entrepreneur Awards 2009 must be made by 10 September.
New Competition To Spark Scottish Creative Business
A new £1 million programme has been announced to help Scottish artists team up with the wider creative industries sector.
Set to launch on 14 September, the Vital Spark Awards will be the first project to be financed by the £5 million Innovation Fund established by Creative Scotland, the new body set up to nurture the nation’s cultural and artistic talents.
Revitalising Recession-Hit High Streets
Grants totalling £3 million are being made available to prevent the economic downturn from creating a series of ghost towns across England.
Communities Secretary John Denham has revealed that 57 councils in areas hit hardest by the recession will each receive £52,632 to help transform empty shops into community facilities like art galleries, co-operatives or learning centres.
Venture Capital Fund Makes First Investments
Two technology companies have become the first businesses to benefit from a Government programme aimed at helping recession-hit small firms.
Business Secretary Lord Mandelson has announced the first successful applicants to the £75 million Capital for Enterprise Fund, a scheme set up in January to offer venture capital to SMEs struggling to cope with the credit crunch.
Green Research Fund Coming To A Close
There are just a few more weeks to take advantage of the latest funding round from the Carbon Trust’s Applied Research Grant scheme.
Businesses, universities, public sector bodies and community groups only have until 17 September to bid for funding worth up to £500,000 to help them develop low carbon technologies.
Big Funding Opportunity For Small Retailers
Small firms across England and Wales are set to scoop £5 million funding to protect their properties.
Later this month, businesses in 50 priority areas will get the chance to bid for grants worth up to £3,000 to buy alarms, banknote testing kits, metal grills and other security devices.
New Recycling Fund Launched
Recycling organisations across the West Midlands are invited to bid for funding from a new £2.3 million capital grants programme.
The new funding opportunity is the second scheme to be offered through the WRAP-AWM Recycling Programme, a joint initiative run by waste watchdog Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) and regional development agency Advantage West Midlands.
Stelios Supplies £50,000 Prize
Disabled entrepreneurs are invited to enter an annual competition sponsored by EasyJet founder Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou.
The Stelios Award for Disabled Entrepreneurs, organised by charity Leonard Cheshire Disability, offers a first prize of £50,000 to the applicant who can demonstrate how the cash would make a significant difference to their business.
Time Running Out To Claim £10,000 Prize
There are just a couple more weeks left for companies to prove they are amongst the UK’s best up and coming businesses.
Applications to the Essence of the Entrepreneur competition have to be made by 31 August.
Information www.straightfinance.co.uk
Source www.j4b.co.uk
Successful businessman Steve Morgan’s annual search for the most enterprising companies and individuals is coming to a close.
Entries to the Morgan Foundation Entrepreneur Awards 2009 must be made by 10 September.
New Competition To Spark Scottish Creative Business
A new £1 million programme has been announced to help Scottish artists team up with the wider creative industries sector.
Set to launch on 14 September, the Vital Spark Awards will be the first project to be financed by the £5 million Innovation Fund established by Creative Scotland, the new body set up to nurture the nation’s cultural and artistic talents.
Revitalising Recession-Hit High Streets
Grants totalling £3 million are being made available to prevent the economic downturn from creating a series of ghost towns across England.
Communities Secretary John Denham has revealed that 57 councils in areas hit hardest by the recession will each receive £52,632 to help transform empty shops into community facilities like art galleries, co-operatives or learning centres.
Venture Capital Fund Makes First Investments
Two technology companies have become the first businesses to benefit from a Government programme aimed at helping recession-hit small firms.
Business Secretary Lord Mandelson has announced the first successful applicants to the £75 million Capital for Enterprise Fund, a scheme set up in January to offer venture capital to SMEs struggling to cope with the credit crunch.
Green Research Fund Coming To A Close
There are just a few more weeks to take advantage of the latest funding round from the Carbon Trust’s Applied Research Grant scheme.
Businesses, universities, public sector bodies and community groups only have until 17 September to bid for funding worth up to £500,000 to help them develop low carbon technologies.
Big Funding Opportunity For Small Retailers
Small firms across England and Wales are set to scoop £5 million funding to protect their properties.
Later this month, businesses in 50 priority areas will get the chance to bid for grants worth up to £3,000 to buy alarms, banknote testing kits, metal grills and other security devices.
New Recycling Fund Launched
Recycling organisations across the West Midlands are invited to bid for funding from a new £2.3 million capital grants programme.
The new funding opportunity is the second scheme to be offered through the WRAP-AWM Recycling Programme, a joint initiative run by waste watchdog Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) and regional development agency Advantage West Midlands.
Stelios Supplies £50,000 Prize
Disabled entrepreneurs are invited to enter an annual competition sponsored by EasyJet founder Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou.
The Stelios Award for Disabled Entrepreneurs, organised by charity Leonard Cheshire Disability, offers a first prize of £50,000 to the applicant who can demonstrate how the cash would make a significant difference to their business.
Time Running Out To Claim £10,000 Prize
There are just a couple more weeks left for companies to prove they are amongst the UK’s best up and coming businesses.
Applications to the Essence of the Entrepreneur competition have to be made by 31 August.
Information www.straightfinance.co.uk
Source www.j4b.co.uk
Friday, August 14, 2009
A Sporting Chance For Warwickshire Business?
Now I know this is not a subject that falls within the subject matter of this blog and I apologise to all readers who are from outside The West Midlands but I read an article in my local paper The Stratford Herald and I am grateful to them for providing this information.
Heads up all you firms in the Warwickshire area. The Olympic Games are looking for you. According to Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce local companies are being sought to bid for business both for the games proper and to work on the pre games activity that is likely to be going on in the area as national teams arrive to prepare and train.
Business Link are organising two business seminars to help smaller businesses capitalise on the opportunity. The first workshop is taking place on 29th September and the second for March 2010. If you would like to register please call 02476 654321 or visit www.cw-chamber.co.uk
Source: http://www.stratford-herald.com/
www.straightfinance.co.uk
Heads up all you firms in the Warwickshire area. The Olympic Games are looking for you. According to Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce local companies are being sought to bid for business both for the games proper and to work on the pre games activity that is likely to be going on in the area as national teams arrive to prepare and train.
Business Link are organising two business seminars to help smaller businesses capitalise on the opportunity. The first workshop is taking place on 29th September and the second for March 2010. If you would like to register please call 02476 654321 or visit www.cw-chamber.co.uk
Source: http://www.stratford-herald.com/
www.straightfinance.co.uk
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Midlands Companies Go European
I am indebted to my good friends at The National B2B Centre in Warwick who tell me that Advantage West Midlands has unveiled its plans to encourage region wide involvement in business opportunities and collaborative projects in Europe http://www.wmictcluster.org/europe/ . AWM is also aiming to help SMEs in the region to benefit from European funding and will provide clear guidance on support services available. The core sections of the European section of the ICT Cluster website are updated frequently and consist of European Programme calls, tender opportunities, events and news. Additional features scheduled for the next few weeks will include regional support services; national contact points for the various programmes; and a “jargon buster” to assist those new to working in the arena of European project opportunities. It's aimed at any organisation involved in providing technology services and products, including regional businesses involved in ICT, education, science parks, researchers and Chambers of Commerce.
Source: National B2B Centre http://www.nb2b.co.uk http://straightfinance.co.uk
Source: National B2B Centre http://www.nb2b.co.uk http://straightfinance.co.uk
Monday, July 27, 2009
Even During The Holiday Period More Grants Are Announced
Although we are deep in the holiday period, organizations are still announcing grants and support for businesses throughout the country. In bringing this week’s list to you I am grateful to J4B for providing the information.
Contest Offers Springboard To Green Ideas
A competition that rewards businesses for coming up with innovative ideas to tackle climate change has reopened to entries.
The Shell Springboard Awards 2009-10 offer cash prizes ranging between £20,000 and £40,000 for UK-based companies to come up with commercially viable products, services or ideas that will lead to a reduction in greenhouse gases.
Low Carbon Plans High OnThe Agenda
Millions of pounds worth of new funding has been announced to help businesses make the most of the shift to a low carbon economy.
The Government has revealed their much anticipated Low Carbon Transition Plan, which outlines how the UK will aim to meet tough targets on cutting carbon emissions by 2020.
£10,000 Prize Not To Be Sniffed At!
BT Business has started its annual hunt to find the UK’s best business brains.
The telecoms giant is inviting applications to their Essence of the Entrepreneur 2009 competition and is offering a £10,000 cash prize to the small business that can demonstrate the best use of technology to drive forward their success.
Rate Relief For Scottish Firms
Scottish small firms are reminded to take advantage of a rate relief initiative.
Through the Small Business Bonus Scheme, companies owning properties with a rateable value of less than £15,000 can apply for an exemption of up to 100%, leading to average savings of around £1,400.
Recession Recovery Package For Birmingham Businesses
Businesses in Birmingham are set for a £17 million recession busting economic support package.
The city’s council is set to stump up £10.9 million as part of the overall Working Neighbourhood Fund investment, which will be used to run a series of tailored support schemes for local firms.
Revamp For Knowledge Transfer Scheme
A long-running support programme that encourages collaboration between industry and academia has undergone a radical revamp.
From the beginning of July, the Government-funded Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) scheme has introduced a more flexible funding system.
This information is provided by mparry@straightfinance.co.uk , http://www.straightfinance.co.uk For more information about our grant support service please email me at the address above.
Blogsheet2707
Contest Offers Springboard To Green Ideas
A competition that rewards businesses for coming up with innovative ideas to tackle climate change has reopened to entries.
The Shell Springboard Awards 2009-10 offer cash prizes ranging between £20,000 and £40,000 for UK-based companies to come up with commercially viable products, services or ideas that will lead to a reduction in greenhouse gases.
Low Carbon Plans High OnThe Agenda
Millions of pounds worth of new funding has been announced to help businesses make the most of the shift to a low carbon economy.
The Government has revealed their much anticipated Low Carbon Transition Plan, which outlines how the UK will aim to meet tough targets on cutting carbon emissions by 2020.
£10,000 Prize Not To Be Sniffed At!
BT Business has started its annual hunt to find the UK’s best business brains.
The telecoms giant is inviting applications to their Essence of the Entrepreneur 2009 competition and is offering a £10,000 cash prize to the small business that can demonstrate the best use of technology to drive forward their success.
Rate Relief For Scottish Firms
Scottish small firms are reminded to take advantage of a rate relief initiative.
Through the Small Business Bonus Scheme, companies owning properties with a rateable value of less than £15,000 can apply for an exemption of up to 100%, leading to average savings of around £1,400.
Recession Recovery Package For Birmingham Businesses
Businesses in Birmingham are set for a £17 million recession busting economic support package.
The city’s council is set to stump up £10.9 million as part of the overall Working Neighbourhood Fund investment, which will be used to run a series of tailored support schemes for local firms.
Revamp For Knowledge Transfer Scheme
A long-running support programme that encourages collaboration between industry and academia has undergone a radical revamp.
From the beginning of July, the Government-funded Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) scheme has introduced a more flexible funding system.
This information is provided by mparry@straightfinance.co.uk , http://www.straightfinance.co.uk For more information about our grant support service please email me at the address above.
Blogsheet2707
Monday, July 13, 2009
Diversification Grants Return!
Good news if you are an SME in The West Midlands. Business Link West Midlands has announced the return of their Diversification Grant for SMEs throughout the region.
The fund has it's roots in the BMW / Rover debacle when many suppliers to Rover Group were left with considerable investment in plant and people but no customer. The Diversification Fund was launched to help such businesses find new markets for their products and services.
Now the programme has spread to all west Midlands SMEs who aree looking to grow their businesses and diversify. The fund is very adaptable and can be used for a number of projects within a business. The ipmortant thing is to have a good business idea that could flourish with a bit of support. Funding is available on a 50/50 match fund basis so if you want to know more please drop me an email
Posted by Martin Parry http://www.straightfinance.co.uk
The fund has it's roots in the BMW / Rover debacle when many suppliers to Rover Group were left with considerable investment in plant and people but no customer. The Diversification Fund was launched to help such businesses find new markets for their products and services.
Now the programme has spread to all west Midlands SMEs who aree looking to grow their businesses and diversify. The fund is very adaptable and can be used for a number of projects within a business. The ipmortant thing is to have a good business idea that could flourish with a bit of support. Funding is available on a 50/50 match fund basis so if you want to know more please drop me an email
Posted by Martin Parry http://www.straightfinance.co.uk
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
New Grant Information for Businesses
Here is a list of grant opportunities for businesses throughout the country. If you are interested learning more please email me
Two New Grants for Glasgow Businesses:
Glasgow City Council has stumped up a £200,000 budget for two new funds, Supporting Sustainable New Business scheme and the Glasgow4Business Fund.
Through Supporting Sustainable New Business, grants worth up to £1,500 are available to help local SMEs that have been trading for less than 12 months to grow and create new jobs. The Glasgow4Business Fund provides match funding worth a maximum of £5,000 to promote sustainable growth for existing firms that have been trading for a minimum of a year. Investment can cover up to 50% of the total project costs and can be spent on marketing, upgrading ICT equipment, purchasing essential capital items, or product development.
Source: Glasgow City Council, 22/06/2009
£25 Million Electric Car Trial Launched:
The government is offering eight new projects across the UK will share the cash to offer members of the public and businesses the opportunity to pilot the next generation of high performance low carbon vehicles. Over the next 18 months up to 340 electric and hybrid cars and models will be made available in areas including London, Oxford, Coventry, Birmingham, and Glasgow. It is hoped the demonstration projects will showcase the technological advances that the car industry has made in producing low carbon vehicles that are as appealing in terms of price and performance as petrol or diesel-powered alternatives. Amongst the car manufacturers involved are Toyota, who are making 20 plug-in hybrid cars available for testing; Mini, who will pilot 40 all electric “smart-cars” and Ford, who have contributed a fleet of zero emission Ford Focus BEVs.
Source: Technology Strategy Board, 23/06/2009
More Support For Low Carbon Vehicles:
As part of the government-funded Technology Strategy Board’s Low Carbon Vehicles Innovation Platform, a second Integrated Delivery Programme Competition has been launched to test out the technologies that are needed to deliver more environmentally-friendly cars.
Support is available for two kinds of project:
1. Innovation Focus Area 1 - £5 million of the overall competition budget has been set aside to fund 12 month proof of concept studies investigating the development of a number of short-term research priorities.
2. Innovation Focus Area 2 – the remaining £10 million will support up to 12 collaborative R&D projects, over a maximum of three years, which will look to achieve medium and long-term research priorities with a view to supporting mass market readiness by 2016.
Both kinds of project will aim to develop technologies in the following areas: propulsion; energy storage; vehicle efficiency; system control; and process and tool development.
Successful projects will need to demonstrate:
3. Clear potential for mass market adoption.
4. Quantified CO2 savings when compared to the current "best in class" technologies and a clear contribution towards getting the public to embrace low carbon vehicle technology.
5. Durability, integrity and safety (in line with industry expectations).
6. A clear route to a viable market and that the innovations are economically advantageous to current technologies.
Applications for Innovation Focus Area 1 funding are made through a single, fast-track process. Bids must be submitted by 6 August. Innovation Focus Area 2 proposals are made via a two-stage process. Interested consortia should initially submit an expression of interest by 6 August. Shortlisted bidders will then be invited to complete a full application by 16 October.
For further information about the funding competition, visit the Technology Strategy Board website
Source: Technology Strategy Board, 22/06/2009
WRAP Reveals Fantastic Plastic Recycling Opportunity
Government-funded waste watchdog WRAP is making grants worth up to £2 million available to increase mixed plastic recycling capacity in England, Northern Ireland and Wales. At the moment, more than 180,000 tonnes worth of plastic bottles are collected for recycling across the UK each year.
But WRAP research has revealed that more than a million tonnes of other household plastic waste - such as margarine tubs, fruit trays and yoghurt pots – is currently being sent to landfill every year due to lack of suitable reprocessing facilities. They are now looking to fund private, public or community sector recycling organisations to increase recycling capacity for this “mixed plastic” waste.
Grants can cover up to 30% of the capital costs involved with either expanding existing facilities or building new recycling plants.
Applications for funding have to be made by 10 September, with shortlisted bidders invited to present their ideas in greater depth to a panel of industry experts.
The successful proposals will be announced by 16 October and the projects will be up and running by 31 March 2011 at the very latest.
For further information about the Mixed Plastics Capital Grant Competition, visit the WRAP website
Source: WRAP, 18/06/2009
If you think you may qualify for any of these funds please check out their website or contact us via http://www.straightfinance.com/ or via email to mparry@straightfinance.co.uk
Two New Grants for Glasgow Businesses:
Glasgow City Council has stumped up a £200,000 budget for two new funds, Supporting Sustainable New Business scheme and the Glasgow4Business Fund.
Through Supporting Sustainable New Business, grants worth up to £1,500 are available to help local SMEs that have been trading for less than 12 months to grow and create new jobs. The Glasgow4Business Fund provides match funding worth a maximum of £5,000 to promote sustainable growth for existing firms that have been trading for a minimum of a year. Investment can cover up to 50% of the total project costs and can be spent on marketing, upgrading ICT equipment, purchasing essential capital items, or product development.
Source: Glasgow City Council, 22/06/2009
£25 Million Electric Car Trial Launched:
The government is offering eight new projects across the UK will share the cash to offer members of the public and businesses the opportunity to pilot the next generation of high performance low carbon vehicles. Over the next 18 months up to 340 electric and hybrid cars and models will be made available in areas including London, Oxford, Coventry, Birmingham, and Glasgow. It is hoped the demonstration projects will showcase the technological advances that the car industry has made in producing low carbon vehicles that are as appealing in terms of price and performance as petrol or diesel-powered alternatives. Amongst the car manufacturers involved are Toyota, who are making 20 plug-in hybrid cars available for testing; Mini, who will pilot 40 all electric “smart-cars” and Ford, who have contributed a fleet of zero emission Ford Focus BEVs.
Source: Technology Strategy Board, 23/06/2009
More Support For Low Carbon Vehicles:
As part of the government-funded Technology Strategy Board’s Low Carbon Vehicles Innovation Platform, a second Integrated Delivery Programme Competition has been launched to test out the technologies that are needed to deliver more environmentally-friendly cars.
Support is available for two kinds of project:
1. Innovation Focus Area 1 - £5 million of the overall competition budget has been set aside to fund 12 month proof of concept studies investigating the development of a number of short-term research priorities.
2. Innovation Focus Area 2 – the remaining £10 million will support up to 12 collaborative R&D projects, over a maximum of three years, which will look to achieve medium and long-term research priorities with a view to supporting mass market readiness by 2016.
Both kinds of project will aim to develop technologies in the following areas: propulsion; energy storage; vehicle efficiency; system control; and process and tool development.
Successful projects will need to demonstrate:
3. Clear potential for mass market adoption.
4. Quantified CO2 savings when compared to the current "best in class" technologies and a clear contribution towards getting the public to embrace low carbon vehicle technology.
5. Durability, integrity and safety (in line with industry expectations).
6. A clear route to a viable market and that the innovations are economically advantageous to current technologies.
Applications for Innovation Focus Area 1 funding are made through a single, fast-track process. Bids must be submitted by 6 August. Innovation Focus Area 2 proposals are made via a two-stage process. Interested consortia should initially submit an expression of interest by 6 August. Shortlisted bidders will then be invited to complete a full application by 16 October.
For further information about the funding competition, visit the Technology Strategy Board website
Source: Technology Strategy Board, 22/06/2009
WRAP Reveals Fantastic Plastic Recycling Opportunity
Government-funded waste watchdog WRAP is making grants worth up to £2 million available to increase mixed plastic recycling capacity in England, Northern Ireland and Wales. At the moment, more than 180,000 tonnes worth of plastic bottles are collected for recycling across the UK each year.
But WRAP research has revealed that more than a million tonnes of other household plastic waste - such as margarine tubs, fruit trays and yoghurt pots – is currently being sent to landfill every year due to lack of suitable reprocessing facilities. They are now looking to fund private, public or community sector recycling organisations to increase recycling capacity for this “mixed plastic” waste.
Grants can cover up to 30% of the capital costs involved with either expanding existing facilities or building new recycling plants.
Applications for funding have to be made by 10 September, with shortlisted bidders invited to present their ideas in greater depth to a panel of industry experts.
The successful proposals will be announced by 16 October and the projects will be up and running by 31 March 2011 at the very latest.
For further information about the Mixed Plastics Capital Grant Competition, visit the WRAP website
Source: WRAP, 18/06/2009
If you think you may qualify for any of these funds please check out their website or contact us via http://www.straightfinance.com/ or via email to mparry@straightfinance.co.uk
Monday, June 29, 2009
AWM Close Proof Of Concept Grant
I have just been speaking to The University of Wolverhampton who adminisiter the Black Country node for the AWM Proof of Concept Grant Fund. They tell me that all projects under the fund must be completed by March 2010 and therefore the fund is closing for new applications very shortly.
So if you run an SME in The West Midlands and yo9u have a great and innovative business product idea now is the time to email me for more information. The scheme offers a 75% grant with a maximum value of £30,000 so it is worth applying for. It's certainly worth the email.
You can find details of our grant application service on our website. So drop me an email. This is the last opportunity. Don't wate it!
Posted by Martin Parry of http://www.straightfinance.co.uk/
So if you run an SME in The West Midlands and yo9u have a great and innovative business product idea now is the time to email me for more information. The scheme offers a 75% grant with a maximum value of £30,000 so it is worth applying for. It's certainly worth the email.
You can find details of our grant application service on our website. So drop me an email. This is the last opportunity. Don't wate it!
Posted by Martin Parry of http://www.straightfinance.co.uk/
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Improvements and Changes to UK Business Grants
There have been some major changes announced to some of the nationally based grant programmes in the UK.
Proof of Market funding is now available. Small scale projects lasting between 3 and 9 months To carry out desk based research into the commercial potential of an idea, funding between £5,000 and £20,000 available Provide support at 60% of eligible costs (maximum > project cost £33,000) For companies with less than 250 employees, a > turnover of less than £34M or annual balance sheet total (total assets net of depreciation) of no more than £29M.
Development project grants:
Grants up to 35% of the R&D costs maximum grant £250,000, for companies with up to 250 employees and a turnover of less than £34M or an annual balance sheet total of £29M. NEW ELEMENT - Grant up to 40% (maximum grant £250,000) for companies with less than 50 employee's and a turnover of less than £7.5M or an annual balance sheet total of £7.5M. Exceptional project grants Couple of changes here: NEW ELEMENT - Exceptional Research Projects lasting between 6 and 36 months For the development of a new technology that is strategically important to an industrial or technology sector, between £100,000 and £250,000 Provide support at 60% of eligible costs for companies with less than 250 employees, a turnover of less than £34M or annual balance sheet total (total assets net of depreciation) of no more than £29M. Capital Investment and Staff Cost Support.
Remember that there are a number significant grant support programmes for SME companies that want or need support for capital investment (land, buildings, infrastructure and capital equipment) and also to increase and grow the number of staff employed.
For more details see our websites http://www.mgba.co.uk or http://www.straightfinance.co.uk
Originally posted by www.ukba.co.uk -- Posted By UK Business Advisors to Boost http://boost-your-buusiness.blogspot.com/2009/06/improvements-and-changes-to -major-grant.html Your Business on 6/09/2009 06:30:00 PM
Proof of Market funding is now available. Small scale projects lasting between 3 and 9 months To carry out desk based research into the commercial potential of an idea, funding between £5,000 and £20,000 available Provide support at 60% of eligible costs (maximum > project cost £33,000) For companies with less than 250 employees, a > turnover of less than £34M or annual balance sheet total (total assets net of depreciation) of no more than £29M.
Development project grants:
Grants up to 35% of the R&D costs maximum grant £250,000, for companies with up to 250 employees and a turnover of less than £34M or an annual balance sheet total of £29M. NEW ELEMENT - Grant up to 40% (maximum grant £250,000) for companies with less than 50 employee's and a turnover of less than £7.5M or an annual balance sheet total of £7.5M. Exceptional project grants Couple of changes here: NEW ELEMENT - Exceptional Research Projects lasting between 6 and 36 months For the development of a new technology that is strategically important to an industrial or technology sector, between £100,000 and £250,000 Provide support at 60% of eligible costs for companies with less than 250 employees, a turnover of less than £34M or annual balance sheet total (total assets net of depreciation) of no more than £29M. Capital Investment and Staff Cost Support.
Remember that there are a number significant grant support programmes for SME companies that want or need support for capital investment (land, buildings, infrastructure and capital equipment) and also to increase and grow the number of staff employed.
For more details see our websites http://www.mgba.co.uk or http://www.straightfinance.co.uk
Originally posted by www.ukba.co.uk -- Posted By UK Business Advisors to Boost http://boost-your-buusiness.blogspot.com/2009/06/improvements-and-changes-to -major-grant.html Your Business on 6/09/2009 06:30:00 PM
Last Call For Innovation Grant
Any business considering applying for a grant under Nottingham University’s Business Innovation Voucher fund should do so immediately. The fund closes on 30th June 2009.
Through the scheme, companies can cash in to the tune of £5,000 and “purchase” academic expertise from the University to help them work on innovative business development projects. Vouchers can cover up to 75% of the total cost of projects that aim to develop new products, processes or services – for example academic consultancy, technical services and small-scale research projects. In exceptional cases, companies may also be eligible for an additional £2,000 worth of support from the University’s Ingenuity initiative.
The scheme is open to applications from all UK-based SMEs, although priority will be given to firms from the East Midlands.
Vouchers will be allocated to companies that:
Can demonstrate evidence of real need to work with the University.
Are interested in developing products, processes or services that are aligned with the University's particular research interests.
For further information about the Business Innovation Voucher Scheme, contact martin.parry@mgba.co.uk, or visit the University of Nottingham website
Sources http://www.j4b.co.uk http://www.mgba.co.uk http://straightfinance.co.uk
Through the scheme, companies can cash in to the tune of £5,000 and “purchase” academic expertise from the University to help them work on innovative business development projects. Vouchers can cover up to 75% of the total cost of projects that aim to develop new products, processes or services – for example academic consultancy, technical services and small-scale research projects. In exceptional cases, companies may also be eligible for an additional £2,000 worth of support from the University’s Ingenuity initiative.
The scheme is open to applications from all UK-based SMEs, although priority will be given to firms from the East Midlands.
Vouchers will be allocated to companies that:
Can demonstrate evidence of real need to work with the University.
Are interested in developing products, processes or services that are aligned with the University's particular research interests.
For further information about the Business Innovation Voucher Scheme, contact martin.parry@mgba.co.uk, or visit the University of Nottingham website
Sources http://www.j4b.co.uk http://www.mgba.co.uk http://straightfinance.co.uk
Monday, June 8, 2009
Can You Meet The Carbon Challenge?
The Carbon Challenge Fund can offer businesses, social enterprises, community groups, charities and a whole host of public sector bodies grants ranging between £100,000 and £500,000 to carry out projects that make the most of low carbon technologies.
A wide variety of green schemes can be supported, including the installation of energy efficient and small-scale renewable energy technologies, the use of low carbon design and construction techniques, and the development of low carbon transport technologies and processes.
The initiative is funded by the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) with cash from the European Regional Development Fund and is being managed by consultants Envirolink Northwest.
At present, only public sector organisations - such as schools, local authorities, hospitals and universities - are invited to submit an expression of interest outlining their potential projects.
Businesses, social enterprises and charities are currently asked to register an interest in submitting a project idea whilst the final application process is being confirmed by the European Commission.
Inviting applications to the new fund, Steven Broomhead, chief executive of NWDA, said:
“The Carbon Challenge Fund represents a key part of our commitment to creating a low carbon economy".
“As a powerhouse of innovation, the region has a sound knowledge base that will ensure businesses and the public sector are able to demonstrate leadership in dealing with climate change whilst improving efficiency, therefore reducing costs and increasing green credentials.”
Ross Dixon, of Envirolink Northwest, added: “We’re asking applicants to submit projects that demonstrate innovation either through the technologies themselves or their overall approach.
“We’re looking for projects which will bring profile and recognition to the region with ideas and approaches that can be replicated here in the North West, across the UK, and internationally.”
If you think you can take this challenge and want to know more drop me an email at mparry@straightfinance.co.uk
Posted by Martin Parry http://www.straightfinance.co.uk and http://www.mgba.co.uk
A wide variety of green schemes can be supported, including the installation of energy efficient and small-scale renewable energy technologies, the use of low carbon design and construction techniques, and the development of low carbon transport technologies and processes.
The initiative is funded by the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) with cash from the European Regional Development Fund and is being managed by consultants Envirolink Northwest.
At present, only public sector organisations - such as schools, local authorities, hospitals and universities - are invited to submit an expression of interest outlining their potential projects.
Businesses, social enterprises and charities are currently asked to register an interest in submitting a project idea whilst the final application process is being confirmed by the European Commission.
Inviting applications to the new fund, Steven Broomhead, chief executive of NWDA, said:
“The Carbon Challenge Fund represents a key part of our commitment to creating a low carbon economy".
“As a powerhouse of innovation, the region has a sound knowledge base that will ensure businesses and the public sector are able to demonstrate leadership in dealing with climate change whilst improving efficiency, therefore reducing costs and increasing green credentials.”
Ross Dixon, of Envirolink Northwest, added: “We’re asking applicants to submit projects that demonstrate innovation either through the technologies themselves or their overall approach.
“We’re looking for projects which will bring profile and recognition to the region with ideas and approaches that can be replicated here in the North West, across the UK, and internationally.”
If you think you can take this challenge and want to know more drop me an email at mparry@straightfinance.co.uk
Posted by Martin Parry http://www.straightfinance.co.uk and http://www.mgba.co.uk
Friday, May 22, 2009
Need Another Pair of Hands?
If you are looking for another pair of hands this might be a terrific way of doing so. Shell Step Student Placement Programme is now open to 2nd, 3rd 4th year & graduated in 2008/2009 from a UK University
• Students complete an 8-week project for a company during July and August (these dates are flexible, but have to fall during the summer holiday period).
• Nationally run programme, we manage the West Midlands Region
• The scheme is sponsored through the University of Warwick and the University of Warwick Science Park.
• An eight-week placement would be £2880, subsidy is available reducing the cost to £2080.00 From this, UWSP will pay the student directly a weekly training allowance of £210.00 (which is exempt from tax and N.I.).
• You can also visit www.shellstep.org.uk for more information
The Project Placements Team - Penny, Alison and Pauline
Tel: 024 7632 3112 / 3025 / 3024
Posted by Martin Parry www.mgba.co.uk, www.straightfinance.co.uk
for more details of my grant advisroy and application service please check out http://www.straightfinance.co.uk/finance/grants.html
• Students complete an 8-week project for a company during July and August (these dates are flexible, but have to fall during the summer holiday period).
• Nationally run programme, we manage the West Midlands Region
• The scheme is sponsored through the University of Warwick and the University of Warwick Science Park.
• An eight-week placement would be £2880, subsidy is available reducing the cost to £2080.00 From this, UWSP will pay the student directly a weekly training allowance of £210.00 (which is exempt from tax and N.I.).
• You can also visit www.shellstep.org.uk for more information
The Project Placements Team - Penny, Alison and Pauline
Tel: 024 7632 3112 / 3025 / 3024
Posted by Martin Parry www.mgba.co.uk, www.straightfinance.co.uk
for more details of my grant advisroy and application service please check out http://www.straightfinance.co.uk/finance/grants.html
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
More Help and Information on Grants
If you are interested in developing your business and think a grant may be able to help you why not get in touch. I work within an business finance organisation based in Birmingham UK, Straight Finance. Click here for details of the business grant service.
The company works with businesses throughout the country and offers a complete and comprehensive package of business and financial services.
To find out more click here to take you to their contact page.
The company works with businesses throughout the country and offers a complete and comprehensive package of business and financial services.
To find out more click here to take you to their contact page.
Relocation Grants for Stoke on Trent
Grants of up to £25,000 are available for businesses who re-locate to Stoke on Trent and the North Staffordshire area.
The Reroot business relocation grant was launched last May for Stoke-on-Trent firms but will be extended across North Staffordshire from next month. Now the district council has joined forces with Newcastle Borough Council and Stoke-on-Trent City Council to urge employers to seek funding if they need to relocate.
Councillor Andrew Hart, district council portfolio holder for regeneration, said: "The Reroot grant is great news for businesses that need to move and great news for the council because it will help us achieve our priority outcome of a strong economy. "I am right behind the grant because it complements our own work to support the local economy in ways such as providing employment units, organising business seminars and awarding grants of our own."
The Reroot grant is administered by regeneration firm Renew North Staffordshire and the money is provided by Advantage West Midlands.
http://straightfinance.co.uk/ http://www.mgba.co.uk/
The Reroot business relocation grant was launched last May for Stoke-on-Trent firms but will be extended across North Staffordshire from next month. Now the district council has joined forces with Newcastle Borough Council and Stoke-on-Trent City Council to urge employers to seek funding if they need to relocate.
Councillor Andrew Hart, district council portfolio holder for regeneration, said: "The Reroot grant is great news for businesses that need to move and great news for the council because it will help us achieve our priority outcome of a strong economy. "I am right behind the grant because it complements our own work to support the local economy in ways such as providing employment units, organising business seminars and awarding grants of our own."
The Reroot grant is administered by regeneration firm Renew North Staffordshire and the money is provided by Advantage West Midlands.
http://straightfinance.co.uk/ http://www.mgba.co.uk/
Monday, May 18, 2009
Carbon Trust Offers Free Loans To SMEs
I thought you might be interested to hear that The Carbon Trust is offering interest free loans to SMEs who with to invest in energy efficient plant and machinery
The scheme will be open to those looking for between £5,000 and £200,000, with the money being given out over the next two years.“The size of the loan offered and its repayment period will be based on your projected CO2 savings, which will be assessed by the Carbon Trust,” explains the trust’s website.Impressively, the application process has been sliced down to an average 10 days (the 763 businesses who secured loans last year had to wait four to six weeks). This is a far sight less time than the three to four months grants and other government-backed finance often take.“Come and get it”, said Hugh Jones, director of solutions at The Carbon Trust. “There’s always been financial benefit from carbon saving but we are bringing it closer to home by offering the money interest free.” The government increased the trust’s loan fund in this year’s Budget, meaning around twice the number of businesses should now be able to access the loans.Tom Delay, chief executive of the trust, pointed out companies could reduce their energy costs by up to 20% by investing in energy efficient plant and machinery.
Find out more here: http://www.carbontrust.co.uk/energy/takingaction/about-loans.htm
http://www.ukba.co.uk/
The scheme will be open to those looking for between £5,000 and £200,000, with the money being given out over the next two years.“The size of the loan offered and its repayment period will be based on your projected CO2 savings, which will be assessed by the Carbon Trust,” explains the trust’s website.Impressively, the application process has been sliced down to an average 10 days (the 763 businesses who secured loans last year had to wait four to six weeks). This is a far sight less time than the three to four months grants and other government-backed finance often take.“Come and get it”, said Hugh Jones, director of solutions at The Carbon Trust. “There’s always been financial benefit from carbon saving but we are bringing it closer to home by offering the money interest free.” The government increased the trust’s loan fund in this year’s Budget, meaning around twice the number of businesses should now be able to access the loans.Tom Delay, chief executive of the trust, pointed out companies could reduce their energy costs by up to 20% by investing in energy efficient plant and machinery.
Find out more here: http://www.carbontrust.co.uk/energy/takingaction/about-loans.htm
http://www.ukba.co.uk/
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
