Show Me The Money! Grants & Funding - Practical Tips & Support

Revised: August 2024

Hello wonderful people,

Featured this month are a load of initiatives for the W Midlands, including probably one of the best programmes I have the pleasure in promoting, the WMCA Activate programme. Activate is a support programme for freelancers and small organisations in the cultural and creative sector featuring an array of great workshops, masterclasses and grants - oh and if you're a freelancer you'll be awarded £500 just for attending! WMCA is delivering this programme with great partners including organisations that I know well including Burley Law and (ahem!) my team! I applaud the fantastic Fiona Latter for co-developing this programme.

Can I talk about advocates? Shoutout to Charlotte Bowden. It’s humbling when someone wonderful tells you that Charlotte has been promoting what we’re doing at hibretOne to her fellow City Council colleagues. Navigating organisations like these are always tricky, but with a Charlotte, or a Fiona as your advocates, life is so much easier. Thank you so much ladies!

Our next placement showing-off her skills is Thanaporn Patcharapokakul, an international student from Aston University. Thanaporn is demoing the work we have done around User Interface/User Experience. We want to ensure the platform supports the widest profiles of entrepreneurs, including those from diverse backgrounds and with additional accessibility needs.

Thanaporn (UI/UX Design) - https://youtu.be/3GxWoefWIL0

See my list of brilliant intern university contacts below who I’ve personally worked with.

Stay amazing, stay courageous

Drew

Drew Currie

Founder, hibretOne CIC

Top Tips for New Subscribers:

●       If a grant or programme is not in your region, google search the keywords within the grant, as the programme may be running in your area, under a different name.

●       Speed read till you find something of interest. Some of the grants have a short window for applications.

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LATEST:

WMCA Activate Programme

Skills and business programme for the Cultural and Creative sector, paid for from the Commonwealth Games Legacy Enhancement Fund. One of the primary pillars for the CWGLEF delivery is to increase the resilience of the West Midlands cultural sector and creative freelancers.

Programmes include:

·        ACTIVATE - workshops, masterclasses, mentoring and networking opportunities.

·        INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME - to open access to culture and the creative industries and support the next generation of talent to enter the sector.

Coming soon:

ACTIVATE Grants - grants ranging from £1,000 - £9,000 to support freelancers and small organisations to access learning and development opportunities to support and develop their creative business and artistic practice.

Deadline: 12 August 2024

hibretOne will be delivering 3 workshops beside some other amazing service providers.

Our Session Titles:

·        Workshop 1 - Show Me The Money: Accessing Finance to Kickstart a New Venture

·        Workshop 2 - Collaboration: Setting up Consortiums to Increase Business Opportunities

·        Workshop 3 - Accessing New Markets: Identifying & Exploiting New Revenue Streams

Find out more here:

https://www.wmca.org.uk/what-we-do/culture-and-digital/culture/activate/

Register here

https://wmcaculture.grantplatform.com/

Student Interns & Work Placements

Contact these wonderful people for interns, a very few students are fully-funded by the institution. The others you’ll need to fund. Put the effort in & they will absolutely repay that extra effort:

●       Aston University – Careers <careers_postgrad@aston.ac.uk>

●       Emma Johnson - University of Birmingham <e.o.johnson@bham.ac.uk>

●       Leslie Griffiths - University of Birmingham <internships@contacts.bham.ac.uk>

●       Amardeep Paneser – Birmingham City University (BCU) <Amardeep.paneser@bcu.ac.uk>

●       Nicole Riley - Birmingham City University (BCU) <Nicole.riley@bcu.ac.uk>

●       Trina Tiernan - Joseph Chamberlain College <ttiernan@jcc.ac.uk>

●       Violet Williams - BMet <violet.williams@bmet.ac.uk>

●       University College Birmingham (UCB) <hired@ucb.ac.uk>

●       University of Warwick - employerconnect@warwick.ac.uk

●       Coventry University - talentteam@coventry.ac.uk

WMCA Future Boards Accelerator Programme

Future Boards Accelerator is about promoting inclusive governance and ensuring that a more diverse range of voices are included in boards, steering groups and leadership of arts, culture and heritage organisations in the West Midlands.

Support people from the global majority to develop skills and confidence to take on board memberships within the cultural sector as well as train organisations to better support board members.

Deadline: 09 August 2024

https://www.peoplemakeitwork.com/our-programmes/futureboardsaccelerator/

WMCA community-led business support

Entrepreneurs in several W Midlands region’s most diverse communities are to get better access to support and advice.

Support delivered by:

·        The Highlife Centre in Coventry

·        iSE Women’s Enterprise Hub (Initiative for Social Entrepreneurs) in East Birmingham

·        Legacy Centre of Excellence in North Birmingham

·        Skills Work and Enterprise Agency (SWEDA Services) in Sandwell

·        Access To Business with Wolverhampton Black Business Network

The targeted business support will help grow the region’s economy while supporting the West Midlands Race Equalities Taskforce’s commitment to help even more people from ethnically diverse communities unlock their full potential by overcoming barriers to success.

https://lnkd.in/ededUGnJ

Shared Prosperity Fund Small Grants Programme

Two grant opportunities available for groups based in or serving the Erdington Constituency.

Deadline: 30th August 2024.

https://lnkd.in/eMKc5ezC

Investment Readiness Programme (Access to Finance)

West Midlands Finance Showcase. This event is designed for businesses at all stages. Representatives from British Business Bank, the NatWest Accelerator - Clean Transport Accelerator & support Decarbonisation Net Zero Grants

Eligibility:

·        W Midlands based

When: 22^nd August 2024

Where: Online

Cost: Free

https://lnkd.in/etqfYSJN

Lincolnshire Business Angels

Supported by the British Business delivering a drop-in clinic for investment-seeking women in business from the #EastMidlands!

Help with:

·        Understanding equity investment

·        Investment readiness training and support

·        Identifying your next steps

·        Pitch practice and deck review

·        Access to investors

When: 13th August 2024

Where: Online

Cost: Free

https://lnkd.in/etYEg9Gh

Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales

Releasing their next round of grant funding. Programme is for small and local charities and CICs with an income between £25,000 to £500,000 that are led by and working with Deaf and Disabled people who are experiencing poverty. Organisations can apply for a three-year unrestricted grant of £75,000

Up to £500 of accessibility support is available to enable applications which can include BSL interpreters, language translation, scribes and Dyslexia software.

Deadline: 28 August 2024.

https://www.lloydsbankfoundation.org.uk/funding/deaf-and-disabled-people-s-organisations-programme

Business Growth West Midlands Taster Sessions

FREE interactive taster sessions designed to give an insight into business funding. Whether you’re a startup or looking to scale, these sessions are perfect for gaining the knowledge and confidence you need to grow your business.

No restrictions of geography for the online sessions.

Access to Finance: Assessing your financial needs

When: 07 August 2024, 14:00 - 16:00

Where: Online

Financial Planning for SMEs

When: 08 August 2024, 10:00 - 13:00

Where: Dudley

Raising Equity: A comprehensive guide to understanding and securing equity investment

When: 13 August 2024, 10:00 - 16:00

Where: Brindley Place, Birmingham

Access to Finance

2-Day Advice Workshop

When: 14-15 August 2024

Where: Great Barr, Birmingham

https://www.businessgrowthwestmidlands.org.uk/events/

West Midlands Business Growth programmes.

West Midlands SME Grant Programme in Birmingham and Solihull;

Capital based 50/50 match funded

£1,00-£7500 Start up's

Existing SME's £1,000- £100,000

For support contact BSGH@birmingham.gov.uk

https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/downloads/50293/wm_sme_grant_programme

Birmingham and Solihull Export Support Programme

Existing SME's up to £6,000 100% funded

To support overseas activity

For support contact BSGH@birmingham.gov.uk

https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/info/50323/birmingham_and_solihull_export_support_programme/2891/about_the_birmingham_and_solihull_export_support_programme_basesp

Net Zero Grant Programme in Birmingham and Solihull

50/50 match funded

£1,00-£7500 Start up's

Existing SME's £1,000- £100,000

Examples include- Solar panels, heating, ventilation, pumps, lighting

Energy audit required

For support contact BSGH@birmingham.gov.uk

https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/info/50294/net_zero_grant_programme/2690/about_the_net_zero_grant_programme/2

Foundervine Future Awards

Foundervine has been a leading platform for recognising and celebrating the UK's most inspiring entrepreneurs. The 2024 Future Awards honour the visionary leaders who are driving positive change and transforming industries.

Event on 22 November in Central London as they recognise the extraordinary achievements of these outstanding contributors.

Deadline: 30 August 2024

https://www.foundervine.com/futureawards

Networking Event for Disabled entrepreneurs

Organised by Small Business Britain and Lloyds Bank. The Cholmondeley Terrace can be accessed step free if required and if there is anything else that will make attendance easier, let Small Business Britain know.

When: 2nd October 2024

Where: House of Lords, London

RSVP or email: hello@smallbusinessbritain.uk

Wimbledon Foundation Community Fund

London Community Foundation have been supporting the Wimbledon Foundation throughout the decade, distributing grants to good causes across Merton and Wandsworth.

Announce the latest round of the Wimbledon Foundation Community Fund is now open for applications. The fund supports local, community organisations in the boroughs neighbouring the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC) in Wimbledon.

Deadline: 9th September 2024.

https://londoncf.org.uk/grants/wimbledon-foundation-community-fund

BVSC CALLOUT: Black History Month

Blackstory Partnership CIC has been commissioned by Birmingham City Council to plan and produce the Birmingham Black History Month brochure for Black History Month 2024 this October. SUBMISSIONS by 12th August 2024, 7pm.

CONTRIBUTIONS | Submit your event, activity, or exhibition here

https://birminghamblackhistorymonth.co.uk/

EDEN PROJECT COMMUNITY

PROGRAMME: Community Camp

Jam-packed with online workshops, inspirational talks, networking and fun, the Community Camp programme is for anyone interested in making a difference in their community.

https://www.edenprojectcommunities.com/events/community-camp

SOCIAL MOBILITY COMMISSION

REPORT: State of the Nation 2023

Social mobility outcomes look at where people end up, typically in their 40s or 50s. They look at people's socio-economic class, income, education and housing.

https://social-mobility.data.gov.uk/mobility_outcomes

POWER TO CHANGE REPORT: Private Space, Public Good

New report by the Bennett Institute and Power to Change examines the role of the private sector in providing social infrastructure – those vital spaces and places that bring people together and sustain communities.

https://www.bennettinstitute.cam.ac.uk/publications/private-space-public-good/

BARROW CADBURY TRUST OPPORTUNITY: Creative Brief

Creative Brief for Birmingham Economic Justice Alliance branding and communications Express of Interest (EoI).

Deadline: 18th August 2024.

https://barrowcadbury.org.uk/news-and-opinion/news/invitation-to-tender-creative-brief/

ASTON CENTRE FOR GROWTH DEVELOPMENT

Help to Grow Management Course

The 12-week government-funded management course is tailored for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the UK.

Next course starts 9th September 2024.

https://www.aston.ac.uk/research/bss/abs/centres-hubs/aston-centre-for-growth/help-to-grow-management

LIVING WELL UK

COLLECTIVE: VCFSE Mental Health Collective

The community for all Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise Mental Health and Wellbeing organisations in Birmingham and Solihull.

https://mhcollective.net/

Principles from Resilient Communities Fund

How can local authorities, funders and central government build resilient communities, create positive relationships with businesses, and simultaneously deliver impact across multiple priorities and themes?

https://www.newlocal.org.uk/articles/three-principles-for-local-resilience

Creative Enterprise Business Builder

Grant up to £2,500 to support companies who work in moving image for storytelling, spanning film television, games, animation and immersive industries. With grants of, beneficiaries will be able to work with a consultant to build meaningful connections and create opportunities for business growth.

Funding can be used to subsidise the cost of working with an expert to support companies’ specific goals including business planning and strategy as well as offering other specialist expertise, knowledge or contacts. Examples include marketing strategy, monetisation of IP, international operation, and more.

https://www.wearecreative.uk/support/creative-enterprise/business-builder-grants/

Footwork – People and Places Programme

Programme of support we offer community innovators like you to turn bold ideas into projects that deliver long-term change for your neighbourhoods.

The programme brings together a network of community innovators and connects you with mentors who offer helpful input as you develop your project.

Footwork covers 100 per cent of the running costs of the People and Place programme, such as, mentor fees and travel to field trips. We also give an unrestricted grant of £5K to each project.

Deadline: 09 September 2024

https://www.footwork.org.uk/peopleandplace2025

Education Today Awards 2024!

The School & Supplier Awards, brought to you by Education Today, recognises and rewards the Suppliers, Schools, and Individuals who work so tirelessly for the greater good of the sector.

Nominations are completely FREE

Awards motto ‘your sector, your choice’ means the supplier entries will be decided by the sector through a secure online vote as who could be better qualified to judge than those who work with the products and services day in, day out? Whilst the Teacher/School categories will be decided by our expert judging panel. For more info please go to the ‘How does it work’ page.

A fun and festive event taking place in London at the end of the year, the ceremony itself will be a real celebration of this amazing sector we call “Education” and we look forward to seeing you there!

Entering is quick, easy and completely free, so what are you waiting for?

Deadline: 15th August 2024

https://educationtodayawards.co.uk/entry-nomination/

Niyo DisruptHER Virtual Talent Expo

Great opportunity for businesses. Niyo would love for you to share this with local businesses that are interested in recruiting female tech talent in Data analytics or Software Development.

I’m a massive fan of the team at Niyo, they really want to & are creating opportunities.

All their students will be presenting their final projects from their Data Analytics with Project Management bootcamps and Software Development Bootcamps. All Talent are based across the UK

When: 9th August 2024.

Where: Online

Cost: Free

https://lu.ma/woxh1wpj

Help YOUR Company Find Their Next Great Hire at School of Code (SoC) CodeFest!

Why Attend SoC CodeFest?

Real-Time Talent Evaluation: Engage directly with participants tackling real-world tech challenges, showcasing their technical skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.

Team Dynamics & Cultural Fit Insight: Observe candidates in action, working in teams, and adapting to challenges—key traits for assessing potential team integration.

Diverse Talent Pool: Discover candidates from varied backgrounds, each bringing unique perspectives and skills that can enrich your team.

Streamlined Recruitment: Efficiently meet and shortlist potential hires all in one day.

I’m a massive fan of the team at SoC. They helped hibretOne build one of our prototype features on mentoring.

When: Friday, 16th August 2024

Where: Technology from Sage, 1 Olivers Yard, 55 City Road, London

https://schoolofcode.co.uk/

Solihull Female Business Leaders programme

Delivered by Charlotte Bowden applications for September cohort now open.

Don’t know much about this initiative, but anything to do with Charlotte is always worth attending.

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Z86aaeTSzUuzA9K74rm78dxJzj0ZepFCgkFeTOU5cyhURUcyVVhLQVFWNjdDWEFXWVJGVTZDMFk4Ri4u

Flexible AI Upskilling Fund pilot

The Flexible AI Upskilling Fund pilot scheme will support SMEs in the Professional and Business Services Sector by match-funding AI skills training for their employees. Grants available upto £10,000.

Deadline: 18 August 2024

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/flexible-ai-upskilling-fund/ai-upskilling-fund-application-guide

Black British Book Festival

Champion emerging talent, hear from leading voices and discover your new favourite Black authors at this family festival that aims to banish barriers to entry. A number of grants here for Black British creatives.

Thanks for sharing Christina B from Melanin Travel.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/T6Jb6bEgfeAck7Fk/

Foundervine Immerse Catalyst

Accelerator designed to cater to established founders over a 9-week period as they seek to scale their businesses. Providing companies with exceptional resources, leading mentors and a network of investors, as well as access to experts and an alumni of founders.

This unique accelerator offers a series of workshops covering topics that will guide your business to new heights, ending with a Demo Day, offering a platform for pitching to investors and accessing a £25k grant funding pot!

Deadline: 03 September 2024

https://www.foundervine.com/immerse-catalyst

The King's Awards for Enterprise

For outstanding achievement by UK businesses in the categories of:

·        innovation

·        international trade

·        sustainable development

·        promoting opportunity through social mobility

This is a UK government award that you'll want to look at if you're in certain industries, such as import/export, where having the award will likely make it easier to win client contracts from the right clients/in the right industries.

Organisations that got an award have reported benefiting from:

·        worldwide recognition

·        increased commercial value

·        greater press coverage

·        a boost to staff morale

It's free to apply.

Deadline: 12th September 2024

https://www.gov.uk/kings-awards-for-enterprise

Strategies to Boost Your Business

Join us, BT Digital Skills and Ciaran Armstrong from Sustainable Pathways on 29th August at 11am for an action-packed webinar where you'll learn vital sustainability strategies that will drive business success! You’ll learn why sustainable business strategies are vital in the long and short term, and how they help drive cash flow.

When: 29th August 2024

Where: Online

Cost: Free

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_C3dzey63TESrAak7YPuJPQ#/registration

STEAMhouse 10 fully funded memberships for women led and culturally diverse-led businesses

The Diverse Innovation Acceleration project will help successful applicants to advance their business through a comprehensive suite of tailored support services.

Benefits include:

·        Bespoke business support

·        Mentoring

·        Networking opportunities

·        Sustainability focus

·        Access to opportunities

Where: STEAMHouse, Birmingham City University

Deadline: 09 August 2024

https://www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/resource/steamhouse-launches-fully-funded-support-for-women-led-businesses.html

The British Academy

Will be holding its next webinar on for UK-based researchers in the humanities and social sciences who are interested in applying for European Research Council (ERC) grants. The webinar will focus on the ERC Starting Grants 2024 call, which opened on 10 July and has a deadline of 15 October 2024. The webinar will be led by Professor Patrick Haggard FBA and British Academy Fellows who have experience with ERC Grants and panels.

Aim of the webinar is to provide participants with a deeper understanding of the proposal and evaluation format and the key issues they are required to address in planning, writing and costing a proposal.

The British Academy grant was one of the easiest grants I applied for! Light touch approach & a really helpful team.

When: Thursday 12 September

Where: Online

Contact Maria Suchcitz m.suchcitz@thebritishacademy.ac.uk

Sie Catalyst

8 week program to set you up for success in raising your next round, through strong relationships with investors and founders, hands-on support from Sie team and Venture Community, and small group sessions with industry-leading experts

Deadline: Closed, but subscribe for details on when programme opens again

https://www.sie.ventures/sie-catalyst

MC Saatchi Open House

FREE online training programme is open to anyone. Whether you are starting out, shifting your career, returning to work after a break or just finding out more. Sessions start 4th September.

Thank you Akil Benjamin for sharing.

Deadline: 25 August.

https://openhouse.mcsaatchi.com/

Daring Capital

Their Mission is to invest in extraordinary, underrepresented founders building for-profit businesses that make the world a better place. Within that, we look to support early stage founders whose businesses are supporting underserved/disadvantaged communities.

Since launch in September 2023, they have raised over £500k for underrepresented founders.

I was on a webinar they ran recently, Jem & his team are doing great things. I’ll definitely be applying to them for funding! Wish me luck!

Offering:

·        £50k - £200k of investment

·        Free legal support with your raise

·        Access to a network of corporate customers

Got a question? Book in for a Q&A.

https://www.daringcapital.co.uk/how-to-apply-2-1-1

Historic England Initiative for Youth-Led Local History

Funding is available to organisations in England to support the delivery of projects that enable underrepresented young people to research, discover and mark local histories.

For 15 projects with grants of between £10,000 and £15,000.

The initiative is intended to enable underrepresented young people (aged 13-25) to research, discover and commemorate local histories, fostering a sense of belonging through exploring local identity and stories.

Applications will be accepted from organisations of all types including community interest groups, charities and local authorities. Individuals can apply if they are registered as sole traders.

The programme is aimed at engaging young people from the priority audiences targeted in Heritage England's inclusion strategy. These are:

·        Young people who are disadvantaged by their social and/or economic background or circumstances, or by where they live.

·        Young people from the global majority, eg young people who are Black, Asian, dual-heritage, and/or from a minoritised ethnic group.

·        Young people who identify as LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, +).

·        Disabled young people.

·        Neurodivergent young people.

Deadline: 02 September 2024

https://historicengland.org.uk/campaigns/help-write-history/history-in-the-making

Barclays Community Football Fund

Barclays Bank in partnership with the Sported Foundation is offering grants of up to £1,000 to not-for-profit organisations operating in an area of high deprivation to support delivery of their football activities to engage with young people (under the age of 25 years) from underrepresented groups.

This is an access grant which aims to help improve access to football for all. The funding is for groups that are running football activities for one or more of the following underrepresented groups: women and girls, young people with disabilities, young people from racially diverse communities, young people from the LGBTQ+ community and young people from lower socio-economic groups.

The funding can be used for anything that will support delivery of football activities to underrepresented groups.

The funding cannot be used for schools and other educational establishments, trips abroad, school based football activities, costs associated with elite football or talent development or multiple teams/projects within the same organisation.

Deadline: 15 September 2024.

https://sported.org.uk/barclays-community-football-fund-2/

The Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust (JRCT)

Accepting applications from UK not-for-profit organisations to support projects in the UK aimed at working towards the creation of a peaceful and just world.

JRCT seeks a shift in the UK defence and security paradigm away from the highly militarised and “securitised” responses towards a new approach based on participatory and accountable governance, human rights, non-violence, diplomacy and mediation, and environmental sustainability.

The Trust is primarily interested in supporting work which is focused on achieving impact in the UK context. Work which is focused on European or other international institutions (such as the UN and NATO) will only be considered if it is capable of resulting in significant impact in the UK context.

Groups who have not registered on the JRCT grants management system need to do so by 7 August 2024 in order to submit an application for the current round.

The deadline for applications is 21 August 2024

https://www.jrct.org.uk/home.aspx

Apart Not Alone: Support for Serving Families Programme

Launched under the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust’s new three-year Funding Framework which will award £30 million in grants over the next three years.

The funding is for not-for-profit projects that will help to mitigate the impact of long or frequent involuntary separation for families, spouses, and serving personnel, including reservists and their families.

Grants of between £5,000 and £15,000 are available. Applications will be accepted from:

UK-based charities who have been registered for at least one year at the time of their application.

Community Interest Companies (CIC) with substantial recent experience of supporting Armed Forces communities and have been registered as a CIC for more than one year at the time of their application

An Armed Forces unit/base based in the UK.

Deadline: 25 September 2024.

https://covenantfund.org.uk/programme/apart-not-alone-support-for-serving-families-programme-2024-25/

Peter Harrison Foundation Active Lives Programme

Opportunities through sport and physical activity

Enabling life-enhancing opportunities for individuals living in the most disadvantaged areas in the UK who encounter physical, mental, social, or economic barriers. 

Using participation in grassroots sport/physical activity as a catalyst to develop personal and life skills, assisting individuals in discovering and fulfilling their potential.

Charities and Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs) throughout the United Kingdom can apply for grants of up to £50,000 to the Peter Harrison Foundation Active grant scheme. The grant scheme aims to provide opportunities for sport and physical activity at a grassroots level that enable physically, mentally, socially or economically disadvantaged people to develop personal and life skills to fulfil their potential. The grants can be used for various purposes, such as funding new sports programmes, improving existing sports facilities, or providing training and support for sports coaches. Priority will be given to organisations with an annual turnover of up to £500,000.

Deadline: 1st October 2024.

https://peterharrisonfoundation.org/about-our-grant-programmes/active-lives/

Young Founders Programme

A prestigious 6-month fellowship designed for exceptional young entrepreneurs from emerging markets. This programme brings together global leaders who share a common goal: achieving entrepreneurial excellence.

Programme Highlights:

·        5-Day Conference in Berlin: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Berlin startup ecosystem.

·        6-Month Remote Programme: Continue your growth and learning worldwide.

Opportunities for 50 Young Founders: This year, 50 talented young founders from emerging markets will be selected to join the programme.

What You'll Receive:

Mentoring, Peer Learning, Expert Sessions, Buddy Programme, Access to New Business Opportunities, Berlin Startup Ecosystem Exposure.

Deadline: 11 August 2024

https://lnkd.in/eFRJCUZB / https://lnkd.in/egxg2pKa

Funding for Schools to Purchase Musical Equipment

The Universal Music UK Sound Foundation (UMUKSF) has launched a new funding round to enable schools across the UK and Ireland to apply for grants of up to £1,500 for musical resources. The UMUKSF School Awards will fund schools teaching the national curriculum to improve their music department by purchasing or upgrading musical instruments and equipment. The Foundation has helped over 10,000 students, schools, and teachers improve their access to music. The deadline for applications is 1pm on the

Deadline: 14th August 2024.

https://www.umuksoundfoundation.com/umuksf-school-awards/

Rewilding Britain

A charity that works to restore nature, has announced that the next funding round of the Rewilding Innovation Fund is now open for applications. The fund provides up to £15,000 to support innovative rewilding projects across Britain. The Rewilding Innovation Fund will support projects that are part of Rewilding Britain's Rewilding Network (applicants may join at the point of application) and are working to apply the rewilding principles to benefit nature, climate and people. Projects must be at least 40 hectares and can be land-based or marine. Marine-based projects can be any size. The Rewilding Innovation Fund was introduced to support the growing number of rewilding projects in Britain. It aims to help these projects overcome some of their challenges, such as securing funding and gaining public support. The closing date for applications is the

Deadline: 30th August 2024.

https://www.rewildingbritain.org.uk/how-to-rewild/funding-for-rewilding/rewilding-innovation-fund

Funding to Alleviate Social Deprivation

The Volant Charitable Trust's Grants programme has re-opened for applications. The fund aims to support Scottish charities and projects that help alleviate social deprivation, particularly among women, children and young people at risk. Registered charities, community interest companies, community organisations and social enterprises can apply for grants of up to £15,000 per year for up to three years to support work that will make a lasting difference for women and children affected by hardship or disadvantage. Foundation Scotland administers funding and can be used for project and core costs. There is a two-stage application process.

Deadline: 1st October 2024.

https://www.foundationscotland.org.uk/apply-for-funding/funding-available/volant-charitable-trust-large-grants-programme

Measures to unlock economic growth announced

Over 30 bills and measures to support economic growth have been announced in the King's Speech at the State Opening of Parliament. These include new devolution powers for regional mayors and combined authorities to support local growth, along with enhanced employment rights and a ban on exploitative employment practices.

An Industrial Strategy Council that will prioritise wealth creation in all communities will also be created and the UK's trade and investment relationship with the European Union will be improved.

https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/the-kings-speech-2024

University group calls for spinout finance

The Russell Group, which represents the UK's top research universities, is calling on the Government to boost investment in spinouts across all regions of the UK. The Group has recommended the launch of a new Spark Fund that would release money to finance spinouts and fill a gap in venture capital investment.

https://globalventuring.com/university/europe/russell-group-spark-fund-spinouts/

Jobcentre Plus and National Careers Service to merge

The Department for Work and Pensions has announced that the National Careers Service will merge with Jobcentre Plus to help tackle economic inactivity. The Learning and Work Institute has welcomed the plans as most National Careers Service customers are referred by local Jobcentre Plus offices.

https://feweek.co.uk/dwp-to-merge-jobcentre-plus-and-national-careers-service/

Tech Nation Creo Programme

Forged in partnership with Motability Operations, Creo exists to amplify and connect disabled and neurodiverse founders, and entrepreneurs innovating around disability and neurodiversity. We provide them with the knowledge, connections and tools to scale their startups.

Creo is a springboard programme for founders, fostering openness and intimacy. Here, honest conversations unfold about the realities of being a disabled or neurodiverse founder, or innovating around disability and neurodiversity, and the pathways to success. It consists of industry expert-led workshops and content, peer-to-peer support, and coaching sessions.

Deadline: 19 August 2024

https://technation.io/programmes/creo/

KPMG Black Entrepreneurs' Award

Establishing a business is challenging, but these challenges are even more pronounced for some. Black-led businesses frequently face disproportionate underfunding, with investment into Black founders less than 1% in 2023 (Diversity Beyond Gender 2023, Extend Ventures).

BEA is a programme which celebrates Black Heritage entrepreneurs in the UK and provides a platform to market their businesses to a wider audience. Each year 4 winners receive a cash prize of £25,000 each, and all of the finalists are enrolled onto a bespoke 12-month business acceleration programme, designed to support Black Heritage entrepreneurs and accelerate the growth of their start-ups.

Deadline: Applications have closed, but sign up for when it opens aagin

https://kpmg.com/uk/en/home/services/environmental-social-governance/black-entrepreneurs-award.html

British Business Bank launches Growth Guarantee Scheme

Guarantee Scheme to help smaller businesses access the finance they need to invest and grow. Around 40 lenders have been accredited under the scheme to provide loans, overdrafts, asset finance, invoice finance and asset-based lending. The scheme is expected to support around 11,000 smaller businesses between July 2024 and March 2026.

https://www.british-business-bank.co.uk/news-and-events/news/british-business-bank-launches-growth-guarantee-scheme-help-smaller-businesses

STEAMhouse are offering even more funded memberships,

Local digital SMEs, to help them get access to the tools, technical support and mentoring they need to grow. The funded memberships through Digital Direction are being supported by the Barclays Eagle Labs Ecosystem Partnerships Programme, funded by the UK Government.

Through the project with Barclays Eagles Labs, digital SMEs with funded memberships will get access to exclusive events, tools, knowledge and mentoring opportunities in order to develop their skills, products and services as part of efforts to boost the region’s digital industry. The project aims to drive the creation of new products and services, jobs, and funding and investment.

https://steamhouse.org.uk/news/150-digital-businesses-to-receive-free-support-at-steamhouse-through-barclays-eagles-lab/

TikTok initiative for smaller businesses

TikTok Shop has introduced the £1Million Club initiative to support and grow small and medium businesses. Under the initiative, businesses will benefit from up to 90 days of zero commission on sales, and free storage and fulfilment. TikTok will also provide promotional support and seller training.

https://mobilemarketingmagazine.com/tiktok-shop-smb/

UnLtd Scaling Up Award

Administered by UnLtd, who also give out the Starting Up Award above, the Scaling Up Award will help you grow your business with an £18,000 grant.

https://www.unltd.org.uk/our-support/starting-up/do-it

CRACK IT Challenges

A challenge-led competition that funds collaborations between industry, academics and SMEs to solve business and scientific challenges which will deliver scientific benefits, either by improving business processes or developing a commercial product. Depending on the challenge, contracts of up to £1m for up to three years are available.

https://nc3rs.org.uk/crackit/crack-it-challenges#apply-to-solve-a-challenge

Net Zero Worcestershire

Grant funding available to help SMEs in Worcestershire to implement energy saving initiatives including LED lighting, heating and insulation and renewables.

How much?

Bromsgrove: £1,000 to £10,000

Malvern: £1,000 to £8,000

Redditch: £1,000 to £10,000

Worcester: £1,000 to £5,000 (revenue grants only)

Wychavon: £1,000 to £5,000

Wyre Forest: £1,000 to £10,000

Net Zero Worcestershire grants are awarded on a match-funded basis, meaning the SME will need to provide at least 60 per cent of the total cost of the project.

What can the grant be used for?

The grant can be used to fund a variety of business activities.

How to apply Email grants@worcestershire.gov.uk

Business Growth Fund

The Business Growth Fund is a £3.5m programme of investment funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund that supports business growth. You could be eligible for a grant of up to 30 per cent of expenditure, if you:

·        Have a project which couldn’t proceed without grant support

·        Are planning capital investment of at least £67,000

·        Are expanding or establishing in the areas of Gateshead Metropolitan Brough Council, North of Tyne Combined Authority, Sunderland City Council

Grants of between £20,000 and £300,000 are available at variable intervention rates of up to 30 per cent, dependent upon the amount requested, the need for grant support and the level of impact in terms of job outcomes and productivity improvements. Applications must involve eligible capital expenditure of at least £66,666 as a minimum.

Your project must satisfy the following objectives:

·        Securing investment to stimulate business growth and create new employment opportunities

·        Overcoming barriers to make job creation projects viable, providing financial assistance to enable business growth and / or improvement projects to go ahead

·        Reducing financial risk for beneficiary businesses in making capital investments

·        Improving productivity and introduce new technologies and processes, resulting in increased profitability, wage growth and employment growth

https://www.weareumi.co.uk/businessgrowthfund/login

Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund

NPIF provides funding throughout north of England through microfinance, debt and equity funds.

They’re broken down like so: Microfinance (£25k-£100K) Debt Finance (£100k-£750k) and Equity Finance (£50k-£2m)

https://www.npif.co.uk/

Made Smarter, West of England

Fully funded bespoke assessment, delivered by the National Composites Centre, enabling SMEs to see the benefits industrial digital technologies can offer their business.

Businesses will be able to access match funded grants for SMEs to invest in digital technology hardware or software and/or specialist advice to implement projects.

Eligible businesses will be able to access leadership and management training, and student internships, delivered by the University of the West of England, to ready your workforce for a digital future.

Eligibility

·        You are a manufacturing organisation

·        You are a small and medium-sized organisation and have fewer than 250 employees

·        You are based in the West of England (Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol or South Gloucestershire)

·        You are able to provide funding towards financial and skills support measures

·        Businesses that are likely to get the most value out of this programme will have a minimum of two employees.

https://www.westofengland-ca.gov.uk/growth-hub/technology-innovation/made-smarter/

Bucks Rural Business Grant

A capital grants programme for rural businesses funded through the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) by Defra. Follows on from the EU-funded LEADER Programme and Growth Programme, both of which were part of the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE).

Just over £1.8 million has been allocated across the two-year programme to help Buckinghamshire's rural businesses with building costs and equipment.

The funding is delivered by Buckinghamshire Council, with Buckinghamshire Business First

programme that provides investment for micro and small enterprises in rural areas, including for net zero infrastructure and farm business diversification.

https://bbf.uk.com/business-support/rural-england-prosperity-fund

Warwickshire County Council Growth Fund – Small Capital Grants

Warwickshire County Council is offering grants to small businesses who have growth plans. Grants of £5,000 to £35,000 are available to small and micro businesses for capital projects.

https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/directory-record/1/warwickshire-county-council-growth-fund-small-capital-grants

OxLEP Business

Offers mentorship and support to businesses, including guidance as to what national grant funding schemes are available.

https://oxlepbusiness.co.uk/business-support-tool/

Intellectual Property Office Patents hub

One-stop patents hub launched. An online hub to help businesses navigate the Standard Essential Patents (SEPs) system. The SEPs Resource Hub includes guidance on a range of topics to help businesses improve their understanding of the SEPs ecosystem, as well as signposting to other resources.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/one-stop-seps-resource-hub-launched-by-uk-ipo

New body to meet skills needs in England

The Department for Education has announced a new body to help meet skills needs. Skills England will bring together central and local government, businesses, training providers and unions to provide strategic oversight of the post-16 skills system.

Will also support local areas to develop their workforces, in particular across construction and healthcare.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/skills-england-to-transform-opportunities-and-drive-growth

Initiatives to support start-ups in Scotland

The Scottish Government is investing up to £2.6 million in initiatives to make it easier for people from all backgrounds to start a business. Grants of up to £1,000 will be available as part of a pilot programme in the south of Scotland to help women and other under-represented groups turn their business ideas into a reality. The Scottish Government will also administer a Pathways Fund to support entrepreneurial activity across Scotland.

https://www.gov.scot/news/unlocking-fresh-business-talent/

Cambridge Tech Week

Learn about the latest tech advancements in quantum, AI, semiconductors, and climate tech, discover new startups, and network with a global tech audience.

Date: 09-13 September 2024

https://cambridgetechweek.co.uk/

Digital Regulation Cooperation Forum

UK regulatory body has launched a new AI and Digital Hub one-year pilot service to support innovators with cross-regulatory queries, which span the remits of its member regulators – the CMA, FCA, ICO, and Ofcom.

Send your query now to benefit from this. 

https://www.drcf.org.uk/ai-and-digital-hub

Africa-UK physics partnership collaborative research projects

Apply for funding for collaborative physics-led projects addressing the challenges of climate change, energy, and capacity building, across African economies. You must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for STFC funding and have a project co-lead based in an eligible African country. This funding opportunity is open to research groups working on collaborative projects between the UK and Africa.

Eligibility:

Collaborative research with other UK and African research organisations from eligible countries

Encourage applications from diverse groups of researchers & female researchers

welcome applications from individuals at any career stage, subject to STFC eligibility criteria

Deadline: 17 September 2024

https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/africa-uk-physics-partnership-collaborative-research-projects/

𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐠𝐫𝐢𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡

An accelerator designed for new technologies along the food value chain to meet the growing demand for food safety, digitalisation, and sustainability.

Deadline: 11 August 2024

https://lnkd.in/dG_S8A_i

𝐀𝐈𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

An accelerator designed to ignite the future of intelligent and decentralized innovation through AI and Web3.

Deadline: 11 August 2024

https://lnkd.in/d8EwX_Ns

𝐃𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡 & 𝐑𝐨𝐛𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐬

An accelerator designed to fuel startups pioneering scientific breakthroughs and disruptive engineering innovations.

Deadline: 11 August 2024

https://lnkd.in/dhjvKJpa

Lavazza Group 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭

Redefine the coffee experience of tomorrow with "Brewing Connection: Innovation in Coffee Product and its Preparation," powered by Startupbootcamp.

Deadline: 31 August 2024

https://lnkd.in/dz_DYb-Q

𝐖𝐞𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐔𝐩 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫

The Sport and Wellness accelerator of the CDP Venture Capital SGR National Accelerator Network!

Deadline: 31 August 2024

https://lnkd.in/dYKEB2Tm

Leek Building Society Charitable Foundation

Supports local schemes and good causes across Staffordshire, Cheshire, Derbyshire and Shropshire. The Foundation's primary purpose is to provide grants and donations that will have a positive impact on the lives of disadvantaged or vulnerable people in our communities.

The trustees usually meet quarterly, in January, April, July and October. Grants up to £5k

https://www.leekbs.co.uk/charitable-foundation/#tbc-18345-0

Tech Impact Awards

The inaugural awards brought to you by the organisers of London Tech Week to celebrate the positive impact of the tech sector.

Awards recognise and honour the people and the organisations who are demonstrating that tech is a force for good in society – whether that's by boosting economic growth, by promoting diversity and inclusion, by investing in skills or creating new solutions which improve people's lives.

So if you are one of the people leading the charge, take a look at our categories and start working on your entry!

https://www.techimpactawards.com/2024-categories

The Greenwich Peninsula Community Fund

Established to support and deliver positive social, economic, and environmental impact in Greenwich Peninsula. Over the course of the development, the Fund will invest £1.9m in community-led projects, with support from the London Community Foundation, who have partnered with Knight Dragon to manage the Fund. For local community groups, volunteer groups, environmental projects, wellbeing and educational services across the Peninsula.

Deadline: 6th September

https://www.greenwichpeninsula.co.uk/greenwich-peninsula-community-fund

Grant Funding for Community Projects

If you are a non-profit making voluntary/community group or social enterprise based in the Scottish Borders, they can help you apply for grant funding to fund your community project.

https://www.scotborders.gov.uk/community-grants-funding/grant-funding-community-projects

Tech Welcome Grant

South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) funded initiative, bringing the brightest tech and digital companies into the South Yorkshire region, covering the costs of accommodation up to a twelve-month period. Now open to tech businesses based in South Yorkshire looking for their first physical office.

https://www.theseam.digital/tech-welcome

Peter Harrison Foundation Active Lives Programme (UK)

Charities and Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs) throughout the United Kingdom can apply for grants of up to £50,000 to the Peter Harrison Foundation Active grant scheme. The grant scheme aims to provide opportunities for sport and physical activity at a grassroots level that enable physically, mentally, socially or economically disadvantaged people to develop personal and life skills to fulfil their potential.

Grants can be used for various purposes, such as funding new sports programmes, improving existing sports facilities, or providing training and support for sports coaches. Priority will be given to organisations with an annual turnover of up to £500,000.

Deadline: 1st October 2024.

https://peterharrisonfoundation.org/about-our-grant-programmes/active-lives/

The Foyle School Library Scheme

The Foyle Foundation has announced that its School Library Scheme will finally close to applications on the 30th September 2024. The scheme awards grants of between £2,000 and £10,000 to UK state schools to improve or establish their libraries. Priority is given to primary schools up to Key Stage 2, but secondary schools that need books and reading resources for catch-up reading programmes for Key Stage 3 pupils and/or transition reading programmes for feeder/local primary schools will also be considered. The Foundation can also consider applications from special schools for all SEN age groups.

Deadline: 30 September 2024

https://foylefoundation.org.uk/how-to-apply/school-library-scheme-guidelines/

School Climate & Biodiversity Projects (UK)

Primary and secondary schools in the UK can apply for grants of up to £3,000 to support projects and activities addressing climate change and biodiversity issues. The funding is available through the Royal Society's Tomorrow's Climate Scientists Programme and extends the Society's Partnership Grants Programme. The primary purpose of the funding is to facilitate the purchase of necessary equipment for these projects. The Partnership Grants scheme operates annually and follows a two-stage application process.

Deadline: Three submission dates every year, next deadline 30th November 2024.

https://royalsociety.org/grants/partnership-grants/unique-scheme-benefits/tomorrows-climate-scientists/

Schools to Purchase Musical Equipment (UK & Ireland)

The Universal Music UK Sound Foundation (UMUKSF) has launched a new funding round to enable schools across the UK and Ireland to apply for grants of up to £1,500 for musical resources.

The UMUKSF School Awards will fund schools teaching the national curriculum to improve their music department by purchasing or upgrading musical instruments and equipment. The Foundation has helped over 10,000 students, schools, and teachers improve their access to music.

Deadline: 14 August 2024.

https://www.umuksoundfoundation.com/umuksf-school-awards/

Alleviate Social Deprivation (Scotland)

The Volant Charitable Trust's Grants programme has re-opened for applications. The fund aims to support Scottish charities and projects that help alleviate social deprivation, particularly among women, children and young people at risk. Registered charities, community interest companies, community organisations and social enterprises can apply for grants of up to £15,000 per year for up to three years to support work that will make a lasting difference for women and children affected by hardship or disadvantage. Foundation Scotland administers funding and can be used for project and core costs. There is a two-stage application process.

Deadline: 1st October 2024.

https://www.foundationscotland.org.uk/apply-for-funding/funding-available/volant-charitable-trust-large-grants-programme

European Innovation Council Accelerator Grants

A funding programme under Horizon Europe that offers support to start-ups and SMEs that:

have an innovative, game-changing product, service or business model that could create new markets or disrupt existing ones in Europe and even worldwide,

·        have the ambition and commitment to scale up,

·        looking for substantial funding, but the risks involved are too high for private investors alone

UK SMEs (companies with less than 249 employees and a turnover under £40m) can apply for grants for up to € 2.5 million (£2.1m), for innovation activities only (TRL 5-8) to be completed within 24 months.

Applicants must be aiming to reach the TRL 8 at the end of the project and continue further development without EIC support.

This call is for innovations in any field of technology and innovations that cut across different scientific, technological, sectoral and application fields or represent novel combinations.

Deadline: 3rd October 2024.

https://eic.ec.europa.eu/eic-funding-opportunities/eic-accelerator_en

Be The Business Productivity Programme

Gives you the tools, energy, confidence and connections to tackle your biggest business challenges. You’ll get six months of personalised support, and the inspiration to take control of your company’s future. 44% of small businesses they support see turnover rise after attending their programmes.

https://bethebusiness.com/programmes/the-productivity-programme

eBay for Change

The programme has supported over 300 social entrepreneurs to start, scale, and succeed on eBay since 2021, and we are now looking for a new cohort of sellers to join our programme and grow their businesses!

If you run a social enterprise with products to sell, visit the landing page for more information about how eBay for Change. Especially interested in social enterprises selling preloved or refurbished goods.

https://pages.ebay.co.uk/join-ebay-for-change/

Small & Mighty Enterprise Programme

6 week programme aims to supercharge sole traders and micro businesses, and help small businesses grow with expert guidance and mentoring.in partnership with Xero and ARU.

The course concludes with a growth plan to support the next year of business opportunity, and an in-person event will also be held to celebrate the achievements of the participants and the goals of the programme.

Live weekly sessions recorded and available on a private Small Business Britain website available exclusively to course participants.

Weekly worksheets to embed learning outcomes accessible on the private website hub, developed by each week’s expert trainers.

Development of an Action Plan: A twelve-month plan to grow and flourish with support of expert mentors.

1 hour of 1-2-1 and group mentoring over the six weeks from expert mentors around the UK.

Inclusion in an exclusive, supportive community to ask and answer questions, access experts and teachers, share experiences and network with other small businesses.

Course dates

Module 1: 25th September 10am - 12pm

Module 2: 2nd October 10am - 12pm

Module 3: 9th October 10am - 12pm

Module 4: 16th October 10am - 12pm

Module 5: 23rd October 10am - 12pm

Module 6: 30th October 10am - 12pm

Cost: Free

Where: Online

https://smallbusinessbritain.uk/small-and-mighty

Funding for Deaf and Disabled People’s Organisations

Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales invites Deaf and Disabled People's Organisations to apply for unrestricted grants of up to £75,000 over a three-year period.

Programme offers organisational development support alongside a three-year grant of £75,000 (£25,000 per year). The grant will be unrestricted, so organisations awarded funding will be able to use the grant to support any costs that further their organisation’s social purpose.

Eligibility:

·        Be based and working in England and Wales or the Isle of Man.

·        Annual income between £25,000 and £500,000 in last published accounts.

·        Have a track record of delivering support, activity or services, for at least one year.

·        Be led by and working for Deaf and Disabled people. This means a majority (at least 51%) of Directors/Trustees and half (at least 50%) of staff, at all levels of the organisation, self-identify as Deaf and/or Disabled people.

Priority will be given to organisations where at least 75% of their Directors/Trustees and 50% of staff self-identify as Deaf and/or Disabled people.

Registered charities, Charitable Incorporated Organisations (CIOs) and Community Interest Companies (CICs)

Deadline: 28 August 2024

https://www.lloydsbankfoundation.org.uk/about-us/archive/deaf-and-disabled-people-s-organisations-programme-june-2024-webinar

NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator

Aiming to on-board 2500 business owners to their fully funded Accelerator. NatWest understand that every business owner is different and that the motivations for scaling a business can vary greatly. We also recognise the power of being surrounded by a network of likeminded individuals and specialists. Developed over the past nine years, these programmes have revolutionised the way we support entrepreneurs, and has proven to really work.

Even if you don’t get on the Accelerator, the Natwest Hub also host regular networking & informational events.

To attend physical hub events register here.

Deadline: 12 August 2024

https://www.natwest.com/business/business-services/entrepreneur-accelerator.html?furl=w_/accelerator

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Disclaimer:

•     Information is produced for entertainment purposes only and is for the sole use of the recipients.

•     The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this site. The information contained is provided on an "as is" basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness or timeliness.

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•     Items added in the order I found out about them, not importance.