Grants & Finance

As with most things in life, we find that when it comes to funding or financing a business or project it is as much who you know as what you know.

We have developed good working relationships with many local organisations, who may be able to support the development of your business through grant funding, loans or other financing methods.

These organisations include: County Durham Development Company, Durham County Council, Business & Enterprise Group, Natural England, Prince's Trust, Arts Council to name just a few.

We can help you review your plans for growth and identify where potential funding may be available, then work with you and the organisation to submit applications.

To discuss potential funding routes please contact 01388 776688 to speak to the business advisory team.

Pandemic Business Recovery Grant 

PBRG can help you start your business with capital or revenue grant funding AND help an existing business grow, recover or take advantage of a new opportuinity.  

Eligibility

You must be aged 18 or over, have a business idea or have a need in the business to grow, recover or take advantage of a new opportunity.

• Live in the CLLD area (please check with the team for location eliigibilty, but loosely the areas of Bishop Auckland, Shildon and Spennymoor and surrounding areas are included)
• Be an SME 
• Be under the De Minimus threshold (i.e. not have recived grants over £190,000 in the last three years
• Be able to cash flow purchases 
• Second hand items are not eligible
• Recurring revenue items are not eligible (e.g. stock, staff salaries, phone bills, rent etc)

Contact the team to check eligibiltiy and make an enquiry on 01388 776688 to arrange a meeting.

New Enterprise Allowance

New Enterprise Allowance can provide money and support to help you start your own business if you’re getting certain benefits.

Eligibility

You must be aged 18 or over, have a business idea and get one of the following benefits:

• Jobseeker’s Allowance (or your partner does)
• Employment and Support Allowance (or your partner does)
• Income Support, if you’re a lone parent, or you’re sick or disabled
• You may also be eligible if you get Universal Credit.

Contact the Start Up Team on 01388 776688 to arrange a meeting.