Show Me The Money: Grants & Funding Advice - June 2024
Jun 05, 2024 9:17 am
Show Me The Money! Grants & Funding - Practical Tips & Support
Revised: June 2024
Hello wonderful people,
Packed in a load of grants & programmes to take your mind off the upcoming elections! Starting with three of the most exceptional placements I have ever ever had a the honour of working with! These are from the University of Birmingham. From July, Yueqi & Yuxin will be seeking full-time Software Developer jobs, so this is a first for me promoting individuals as I 100% believe in team, but these guys are so special their individual brilliance needs to be recognised.
Yueqi, Yuxin & Ryan winning the Hackiest Hack competition earlier this year..& a toy shark!
Yueqi (Business Plan Writer & loads of other stuff) - https://youtu.be/BCwiOBKnRuE
Yuxin (Grant Finder & other stuff) - https://youtu.be/_eKzOoENnvI
Ryan (Entrepreneur Assessment & other stuff) - https://youtu.be/KZaD0hD3mOg
To secure interns of your own, connect with the university contacts I’ve personally worked with below.
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.
Signup to receive this free Show Me The Money newsletter every month to your inbox:
https://sendfox.com/hibretOne
LATEST:
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 - All funded placements are now taken aston.ac.uk/careers
● 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
83 FREE business events to grow your network in June 2024
Every entrepreneur knows how lonely starting a business can be. The road to company success has many barriers to overcome, so it’s important to build up strong relationships with allies, mentors, and partners when you can. Startups.co.uk have found 83 lunches, forums, and webinars across 14 major UK cities that will cost you nothing, and generate valuable connections that could lead to business opportunities in the future.
https://startups.co.uk/news/free-business-events-june-2024/
Small Business Saturday Small Biz 100
Highlighting 100 small businesses, one a day for 100 days leading up to Small Business Saturday 2024. For the last ten years, the 100 have not only received exposure on Small Business Saturday's social media channels and in the local and national press, but also joined the Small Business Saturday team in London at receptions in Downing Street, House of Lords and the Treasury Drum with the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Thanks Michelle for another great initiative.
Deadline: 30 June 2024.
https://smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/small-biz-100
PwC Building Public Trust Award for Impact in Social Enterprise
In partnership with the School for Social Entrepreneurs, PwC recognises UK based social enterprises demonstrating excellence in impact reporting.
To enter, applicants must state how they demonstrate a positive social and/or environmental impact, as well as submitting qualitative and quantitative evidence to support their application. The winner receives a £5,000 donation and each of our two highly commended applicants receive £2,500.
To apply, applicants are asked to summarize their impact in no more than 500 words and to submit up to two documents as supporting evidence (e.g., impact report, financial statement).
Three finalists are invited to celebrate with PwC at their Building Public Trust Awards dinner in London on 12 November 2024. Thank you Harriet Saunders for sharing.
Deadline: 28 June 2024
https://www.pwc.co.uk/who-we-are/our-purpose/empowered-people-communities/community-engagement/social-enterprise/impact-and-reporting.html
Social Economy Research & Development Grant Fund
West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Social Enterprise Growth Strategy Grant awarding and managed by the Barrow Cadbury Trust. Grant is to enable organisations to develop new products or services that will generate additional trading income. It cannot be used retrospectively on an existing product or service. A maximum of 8 grants of between £5,000 & £10,000 each will be awarded.
The final successful applications will be by a panel made up of people from WMCA and the Social Economy Task Force.
Eligibility:
● Organisation must have a 'social economy' legal structure
● Must be based in the WMCA area
Initial applications deadline: 14th June 2024
If shortlisted provide more information between 24th June and 1st July 2024, with final decisions 10th July 2024.
https://www.tfaforms.com/5125442
Home Office Invites UK Applications to New £3m Transition to eVisa Fund
The Home Office is offering grant funding to a wide range of civil society organisations from across the UK to provide direct support to vulnerable people as they make the transition from physical immigration documents to eVisas by the end of 2024.
Applications can be made either for a national support grant, which will be awarded to a single organisation in each of the four nations, or a community support grant of up to £30,000 each. These will be awarded to individual organisations, multi-organisation consortiums or partnerships that will deliver specialist support for a specific vulnerable group(s) regionally, nationally, or UK-wide.
To be eligible, organisations must have at least two years’ experience supporting individuals with complex needs.
Applications will be accepted from the following types of organisations (not an inclusive list):
● Charities
● Non-Governmental Aid Organisations (NGOs)
● Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs)
● Private Voluntary Organisations (PVOs)
● Civic Groups
● Community Foundations
● Community Organisations
● Religious Organisations
● Social Enterprises
● Support Groups
● Community Interest Companies (CICs).
● Successful organisations will be those well-placed to provide trusted, community-based support for vulnerable and hard to reach customers, which includes but is not limited to:
● People with a disability
● People with severe learning difficulties
● Adults with severe mental health conditions
● Victims of domestic abuse
● Older/Elderly people
● People with poor literacy or English language skills
● People who are rough sleeping, hidden homeless, statutory homeless, in temporary accommodation or at risk of homelessness.
Bids will be welcome from single organisations or multi-organisation consortiums and partnerships. (Local Authorities are not eligible for this funding.)
The first step in the bidding process is to register on the Home Office Jaggaer portal. Once approved, which takes about 24 hours, applicants will need to send an email requesting access to the required documents.
Deadline: 19 June 2024
https://www.find-government-grants.service.gov.uk/grants/transition-to-evisa-fund-1#info
The Hinrichsen Foundation
Offering grants to charities and other organisations across the United Kingdom to support the performance of contemporary music, including the commissioning of new work, non-commercial recording, or publication.
There are two levels of funding available:
● One-off small grants typically between £500 and £2,500 (for new applicants and former beneficiaries).
● Larger projects or concert series generally £2,000 and over.
The Trustees will occasionally provide funds for research projects that are not being conducted under the remit of an academic institution. Multi-year partnerships may also be considered.
There are typically three application deadlines per year.
Deadline: 31 August 2024.
https://www.hinrichsenfoundation.org.uk/
Business Growth West Midlands
Replacing the traditional LEP’s each region is being funded by UKSPF to deliver business advice & in some cases funding.
Offers support to new and established businesses of all sizes, in all sectors. In addition to our own events and programmes, there are free business support opportunities available from various providers across the West Midlands. Our Business Advisers can help you identify what you're eligible for, and make introductions to get you on the path to growth.
Thanks for sharing Charlotte Bowden.
https://www.businessgrowthwestmidlands.org.uk/events/?
Girl Grind UK's 'She Don Did It' program
A groundbreaking initiative empowering diverse women and gender expanding people to break barriers in music and performance industry with our 4-week program designed for diverse women* and non-binary individuals. Courses includes:
● Songwriting & Performance
● Music Production
● Music Business
● Event Management
Deadline: 28 June 2024
https://www.girlgrinduk.co.uk/she-don-did-it
Girl Grind UK's Art Break Challenge
Funded by United By Legacy to deliver in partnership with Duke of Edinburgh 13 Workshops : 1 Week Residential : 3 Month Guided Volunteering
Are your children aged between 14 to 17?
Do you want to have plans for this summer that are exciting, high energy and also stretch your personal development?
Exciting news awaits as Applications are now open for ABC, a transformative 6-month arts and cultural project proudly funded by United by Legacy (Gen 22) and delivered by Girl Grind UK in partnership with The Duke of Edinburgh and Blackwell Adventure.
Deadline: 28 June 2024
https://www.girlgrinduk.co.uk/grownish/abc
Women Looking for a Side-hustle
The Initiative for Social Enterprise (iSE) Women's Enterprise and Community Hub are hosting an open day for women looking to find out more information about courses and career opportunities. The open day will be delivered by Pathway Group a national training provider dedicated to changing lives through skills and work.
Multiply - Free Maths Training for those already in employment.
Careers Creator (WMCA) - Pre-employment phase leading into a paid job
Customer Service
Warehousing
Advance learner loans - The following courses are funded through the student loans company
· Diploma in combined beauty
· Diploma in Nail technology
· Diploma in Message therapy
· Diploma make up artistry
· Diploma in business and management
· Diploma in business
· Diploma in health and social care
When: 07 June 2024
Where: iSE, Women's Enterprise and Community Hub, Birmingham
https://bit.ly/3X4jEiF
Cornwall Social Enterprise Fund
Focused on promoting long-term financial sustainability in social enterprises across Cornwall. It will do this by providing funding that will enable organisations to generate revenue which is distinctly separate from charitable funding. Applications from start-up and established groups are welcome where there is a strong focus on long-term financial sustainability.
Grants range from £1,000 - £20,000;
Deadline: 20th June 2024
https://www.cornwallcommunityfoundation.com/grants/cornwalls-social-enterprise-fund-2/
Crowdfunder Cost of Living Resilience Fund
Provides match funding for social sector organisations running services to help people struggling with the rising cost of living. The fund aims to increase the sustainability of these organisations by supporting them to deliver projects which increase enterprise activity to build stability and resilience. Up to £50,000 in match funding is available on a first come first served basis.
https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/funds/cost-of-living-resilience-fund
Skills for Londoners Community Outreach Programme
The GLA has announced applications are now open for the 2024-25 round. Grants of up to £35,000 are available to organisations that help raise adult education awareness, ensuring Londoners have necessary skills to improve their lives.
Deadline: 14 June 2024
https://www.london.gov.uk/programmes-strategies/jobs-and-skills/training-providers-teaching-skills/jobs-and-skills-funding-opportunities/skills-londoners-community-outreach-programme
Black Venture Growth Programme
Foundervine in partnership with Barclays funded by UK Government, the Barclays Black Venture Growth Programme is a dedicated 16-week programme that focuses on growth and removing barriers to fundraising through targeted support. The programme can support ventures in accelerating their success beyond the programme through a three-layer approach.
only 20 spaces available
on this unique 16-week accelerator, delivered through a combination of virtual and in-person events from August 2024 through to February 2025.
Eligibility:
● At least 1 founder (or C-suite) self-identifies as Black or of Black heritage
● You have proven expertise in your industry
● You are available to attend all the masterclasses over the 16-week period
Deadline: 26 June 2024
https://www.foundervine.com/barclays-black-venture-growth
Ascend Accelerator
A unique opportunity created by Foundervine to provide you with the resources, mentorship, and network needed to scale your business and achieve your entrepreneurial dreams.
35 spaces available on this unique 12-week programme, delivered through a combination of virtual and in-person events from June 2024 to February 2025
Eligibility:
● Women and non-binary leaders of growth-stage businesses that require funding to scale.
● Revenue-generating and/or VC backed
Deadline: 24 June 2024
London based.
https://www.foundervine.com/ascend
Niyo's Mixer
For key West Midlands' Leaders and Professionals within the Tech & Business ecosystem. The goal of the event is to foster connections, inspire collaborations, and open doors to new partnerships.
This pre-niyo fest event to enable fast growing startups from Africa as well as some Korean delegates to see the potential in the region.
When: Friday 7th June 2024, 6-8:30pm
Where: Zellig Reception Lounge, Digbeth, Birmingham
Checkout what Niyo Group are about, in addition to all their other stuff, they are doing some great things for Black Women in tech.
https://lu.ma/s8e1kv04
Service sector inflation remains high
The annual inflation rate fell to 2.3% in April 2024, down from 3.2% in March. However, inflation in the service sector only fell from 6% to 5.9%, due to businesses passing on some of the costs from the National Living Wage increase.
https://www.theguardian.com/business/article/2024/may/22/uk-inflation-rate-drop-analysis
Two Decades of Impact: CREME’s 20th Anniversary Conference
To mark this significant milestone CREME will be hosting a hybrid conference featuring distinguished international scholars and practitioners in the field of minority entrepreneurship.
CREME's contributions to research, policy, and practice will be showcased through our role of shaping the landscape of ethnic minority entrepreneurship over the past two decades, sessions include:
● A Journey Through Time
● Regional perspective - Inclusive ecosystem building through the Pathways to Enterprising Futures project
● National perspective - Advancing UK's ethnic minority businesses, the Time to Change Project
● CREME’s Flagship Projects
● CREME's Way of Shaping the Future
When: 12 June 2024, 09:30-17:00
Where: Hybrid Conference, Aston University and Zoom
Cost: Free
To find out more about CREME’s 20th anniversary, read this blog: https://sway.cloud.microsoft/628W8SHDnqZoo4OF
Register for the CRÈME event here:
https://forms.office.com/e/nANRQVsBD4
Support for high-growth start-ups in Scotland
The Scottish Government has announced extra investment to nurture high-growth businesses. The £5 million package will fund pre-start support aimed at stimulating the earliest stages of business creation. It will also include support to maximise the economic impact of university spin-out companies.
https://www.gov.scot/news/support-for-start-up-businesses/
Women in Innovation Award 2024/25
Women within UK registered micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can apply for a share of up to £4 million to develop their exciting and innovative ideas. The £75,000 grant also includes bespoke business support.
Innovate UK is offering up to 50 Women in Innovation Awards to women entrepreneurs within SMEs across the UK. The winners will receive a £75,000 grant and bespoke business support.
The aim of this competition is to fund and support a diverse portfolio of Women in Innovation Award winners who will be relatable role models for women from all backgrounds from regions across the UK who are solving a range of pressing societal, environmental and economic challenges in a variety of innovation areas.
Deadline: 10 July 2024
https://iuk.ktn-uk.org/events/innovate-uk-women-in-innovation-awards-2024-25-briefing-event/
Summer Networking with NatWest Enterprise
Join for an evening of Summer Networking hosted by NatWest Enterprise!
We are thrilled to invite you to join us for an afternoon of networking with entrepreneurs and the NatWest team.
When: 13 June 2024
Where: NatWest Accelerator Hub, 2 St Philip's Place, Birmingham, B3 2RB
Cost: Free
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/summer-networking-with-natwest-enterprise-tickets-909844709017
Business Rates Relief
Businesses that are newer or any which are struggling with cashflow, not otherwise able to use small business rates relief etc. Checkout the hardship reliefs from your councils. You will only find out if you’re successful when you look at your bill, they do not tell you. Here’s a list of reliefs Sandwell Council are providing businesses:
● If you pay business rates your property may be eligible for business rates relief.
● Retail relief
● Small business rate relief
● Supporting small businesses relief
● Charitable relief
● Exempted buildings and empty buildings relief
● Improvement relief
● Transitional relief
● Section 44a relief (Temporarily Part Occupied/Part Void)
● Hardship relief
● Flood relief
● Heat Network relief
● Valuation
https://www.sandwell.gov.uk/business-rates/hardship-relief
&
https://www.sandwell.gov.uk/business-rates/ways-reduce-business-rates
Enabling Small and Medium Enterprises through Diversity and Inclusion
Join InterAct researchers at the University of Wolverhampton to learn more about how you can create a more inclusive, diversified workforce.
The first 'Enabling Small and Medium Enterprises through Diversity and Inclusion' event will examine how SMEs can provide suitable and welcoming workplace environments for disabled people through inclusive digitalisation. This event will share and discuss the findings of the project ‘Manufacturing a better world’, which has been investigating inclusive digitalisation by exploring both first-hand accounts of disabled people’s use of digital technology in manufacturing and experts' views. Many SMEs face skills gaps and challenges in attracting and retaining talent, and this session will provide advice on how businesses can diversify their workforce and attract new talent into manufacturing.
Expert advice on designing and implementing inclusive policies and practices in the workplace
Technical insights on the inclusive use of digital technology in working environment
The opportunity to co-create inclusive technology design through sharing and discussing best practices and policies
When: 13 June 2024
Where: National Brownfield Institute, Cambridge Street, Wolverhampton
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/enabling-small-and-medium-enterprises-through-diversity-and-inclusion-tickets-896666221807
The Innovation Awards
Technology Supply Chain (TSC) recognise, celebrate, and reward the businesses, organisations and individuals who are dedicated to innovation. They are open to individuals, businesses and organisations including universities, LEPs, catapults, trade associations and memberships based in the UK.
A few of the categories are below, plus individual & organisation awards.
● Manufacturing Innovator of the Year
● Engineering Innovator of the Year
● Construction Innovator of the Year
● Net Zero Innovator of the Year
● Sustainability Innovator of the Year
● Defence Innovator of the Year
● Tech Innovator of the Year
● Health Tech Innovator of the Year
● Public Sector Innovator of the Year (for public sector organisations)
● New Innovation of the Year
Nominations close 30th June 2024. Well done Richard Fallon for organising this brilliant event.
https://innovation-awards.co.uk/
NHS Blood and Transplant’s Community Grants Programme
Part of NHS Blood and Transplant’s commitment to build support for blood, organ, and living kidney donation among Black, Asian, mixed heritage, and minority ethnic communities.
Total funding pot of £600,000. Three bands of grants upto £20,000 per year. The focus of proposed projects must be one of the following:
● Deceased organ donation - applications encouraged from all ethnic minority communities to raise awareness of, and participation in deceased donation. Other forms of organ donation may be referenced in applications, but the focus must be on deceased organ donation.
● Blood donation - due to clinical need, only applications will be considered for projects focusing on the Black African and/or Black Caribbean communities.
● A combination of deceased organ and blood donation - applications jointly covering deceased organ donation and blood donation from all ethnic minority communities, but the blood element of any project must focus on engaging the Black African and/or the Black Caribbean communities and must be carried out in England.
Living kidney donation – applications encouraged from all minority ethnic communities to raise awareness of, and participation in living kidney donation.
Deadline: 30 June 2024
https://www.nhsbt.nhs.uk/how-you-can-help/get-involved/community-grants-programme/about-the-programme/
Report reveals barriers to small business expansion
A report from PayPal has found that 64% of small businesses have not expanded in the last three years. Almost 70% of business owners believe their business has potential for growth if they could overcome barriers such as a lack of technical expertise and the economic landscape.
The report also found that 28% of business owners lacked confidence with online and social media marketing.
https://newsroom.uk.paypal-corp.com/UK-SMEs-poised-for-growth,-yet-technical-expertise-gap-poses-potential-hurdle
Boost Charitable Trust
Boost supports organisations that champion the disabled and disadvantaged through sport.
It is able to offer small grants (under £500) and larger grants (over £500)
The charity has previously supported a wide range of sports including Boccia, skiing, wheelchair rugby and wheelchair basketball.
www.boostct.org
Barchester’s Charitable Foundation
Barchester’s Charitable Foundation helps older people and other adults with a disability across England, Scotland and Wales.
It gives grants to help reduce isolation and loneliness, promote group activities and generally improve people's independence, mobility and quality of life. Grants range from £100 to £1,000 for individuals and up to £2,500 for community groups.
It funds:
● Older people 65+
● Adults 18+ with a physical or learning disability
● Adults 18+ with mental problems
● Individuals
● Small community groups and charities.
● Applications for named individuals must be completed by a third party, who knows the individual in a professional or community-based capacity. This could be a healthcare professional, a social or citizen’s advice worker or a charity representative.
The online or downloadable application form is available on their website.
England, Scotland and Wales only.
www.bhcfoundation.org.uk
Google Digital Garage
Digital Skills Training - Free in-person workshops and 1-to-1 mentoring sessions hosted by Google.
Receive expert coaching on many aspects of growing a business, including how to develop your social media strategy, reach new customers and boost your online presence.
https://www.enterprisenation.com/google-digital-skills-training/
National Highways
Launched England’s first social enterprise dynamic purchasing system (SEDPS)
SEDPS which is designed for organisations who have primarily social objectives and whose surpluses are principally reinvested into their business or communities for that purpose to gain access to more contracts than ever before.
If you'd like to provide goods and/or services to National Highways, our supply chain and other Government departments in any of the categories below, they want you onboard:
● Cleaning services, cleaning and hygiene products
● Construction, engineering, assembly and manufacturing
● Design, video and photography
● Event management and venue hire
● Food, beverage and catering
● Furniture
● Landscaping
● Printing, printers, scanning and document management solutions
● Professional services, consultancy and training
● Signage
● Waste management
Eligibility:
● has primarily social objectives whose surpluses are principally reinvested for that purpose in the business or in the community, rather than being driven by the need to maximise profit for shareholders and owners
● can deliver one or more of the categories above
● and can deliver said categories in any regions of England, Scotland and Wales
https://nationalhighways.co.uk/suppliers/becoming-a-supplier/social-enterprises/
STEAMhouse Forward
A new project to support Birmingham & Solihull businesses to innovate, collaborate and grow This project is open to ALL local businesses and SMEs in key growth clusters, with a particular emphasis on the creative, digital, transport technology and low-carbon sectors.
They are looking to help ambitious businesses and organisations who want to capitalise on the opportunity to receive up to 20 hours of tailored, guidance from our skilled mentors and technicians, free-to-access business support.
https://formbuilder.evolutive.co.uk/formsite/form/b97c368d-13c3-49be-be05-2ab9ae74426e
UoB Elevate at The Exchange
Located at The Exchange, UoB Elevate is an incubator and business growth programme exclusive for University of Birmingham students and graduates. Through this space and support you can develop your own venture in an environment that fosters growth and enables possibilities beyond the established graduate route.
There are two parts to the application process. You will need to complete an online application form and if successful, you will be invited to pitch your idea to an independent panel.
Deadline: 27 June 2024
https://intranet.birmingham.ac.uk/as/employability/b-enterprising/uobelevate/uob-elevate-about.aspx
Darwin Plus Local Opens for Applications
A UK government grants scheme that helps deliver long-term strategic outcomes for the unique biodiversity, the natural environment and improving resilience to climate change within the UK Overseas Territories (UKOTs). Darwin Plus Local sits within Darwin Plus and supports small scale environmental projects exclusively in the UKOTs, with the aim of building capacity in-territory and contributing to local economies.
Round 4 offers grants of up to £50,000 for organisations, and £20,000 for individuals. Round 4 projects can last up to six months and should be carried out between 1 October 2024 and 31 March 2025.
A wide range of projects may be eligible for funding including, but are not limited to:
● Capacity building such as training courses, upskilling, peer-to-peer learning initiatives and sharing of best practice among OTs and their partners
● Pilot projects to test a proven evidence-based or innovative new solution in a specific area or with a specific group, to measure results and learn lessons
● Enhanced protection and restoration of priority species, habitats, and landscapes and sustainable management of natural resources and activities (such as tourism)
● Actions to combat and build capacity to tackle invasive alien species and improve biosecurity
● Grassroots, community-based and locally led efforts to advance conservation action, build capacity and increase resilience or improve environmental quality
● Policy work, which might include legal gap analysis or drafting and implementation of new legislation
● Outreach and education, including to involve, build capacity and buy-in for conservation, and raise awareness among local people and diverse community groups
● Actions to increase resilience to climate change and enhance sustainability
● Enhanced data management and analysis with specific goals for embedding this to inform policy, management, and practice
● Sustainable financing for conservation.
Deadline 24 June 2024.
https://darwinplus.org.uk/apply/
The Smallwood Trust
Supports organisations providing frontline services for women to manage the impact of the cost-of-living crisis. It will be distributing £2.2 million. It is open to frontline services in England with a turnover of less than £1,000,000. Priority is given to the following group: Women experiencing racial inequality, disabled women, women who are sole parents and women in the LGBTQ+ Communities.
Deadline: 21st June 2024.
https://www.smallwoodtrust.org.uk/womens-urgent-support-fund/
The Community Foundation
Aiming to allocate £500,000 in the 2024 / 2025 financial year to support organisations to look after and enhance the environment and support the region to rise to the challenge of climate change.
Applicants are advised to read the 2024 Vital Signs report on the environment, as they are willing to consider a broad scope of applications where charitable funding can have a significant impact:
Re-wilding programmes, recycling and repurposing projects, raising awareness in communities, and improving the energy efficiency of a building are examples of activities that could be considered for funding. They will focus on supporting smaller, local charities and community organisations, preferably with an income of up to £1 million. Funding for Gateshead, Newcastle, Northumberland, North Tyneside, South Tyneside and Sunderland. Up to £10000 but may consider up to £10,000.
Deadline 31 March 2025.
https://www.communityfoundation.org.uk/grants/environmental-and-climate-related-activities-in-2024-2025/
BBC Children in Need - Grant Programmes
The BBC's Children in Need grant programmes are open to registered charities and not-for-profit organisations working with disadvantaged children and young people under 18 years in the UK.
There are three schemes:
Project Costs Funding Stream - to fund activities which are time limited. No application deadlines and you can apply at any time.
Core (Organisational) costs Funding Stream - to fund running and operational costs of organisations that work with children and young people. No application deadlines.
Emergency Essential Grants - to support children and young people living in extreme poverty. Delivered by the Family Fund and is a referral programme.
To apply: Join Children in Need to obtain a log in to make an application.
www.bbcchildreninneed.co.uk
Access to Bank Finance for Ethnic Minority Firms in the UK
A guest lecture as part of the #CREMEat20 seminar series. Prof Robert's will be discussing 'Access to Bank Finance for Ethnic Minority Firms in the UK - Past, Present, and Future.' The seminar will explore three areas of access to bank finance:
● A review of evolution and history of ethnic minority business finance policy in the UK since 1970
● Review of the recent and current situation
● Where do we go from here? New proposals and implementation plans of Time to Change report
● Past, Present, & Future
When: 26th June 2024 12:00-15:00
Where: Aston University, Birmingham
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=DJWFoCVM1USUWrhS-kSiIXUPKVJlO-lAj6HwYBN456VUQlUzUTlCNUhORzFMVDFSTE4yWEE0UThPSy4u
She Loves Tech Global Competition is back
This year, they’re celebrating a 10th anniversary – a celebration of explosive innovation and stellar success in technology. This is for you if you have:
● a tech startup with an MVP, and have raised less than US$5M
● at least one female founder or majority female consumers/end-users
https://www.shelovestech.org/
Greene King
Grants for grassroots sports clubs and community organisations to deliver activities within local communities across the UK - beneficiaries must be aged 18 or over.. Up to £4000. Open to applications all year.
Next deadline: 01 Nov 24 .
https://www.greeneking.co.uk/proud-to-pitch-in
Funding to Reduce Isolation and Loneliness Among Older People Across Great Britain
The Barchester Healthcare Foundation, also known as the Barchester Charitable Foundation, was established by Barchester Healthcare to reinvest into the communities it serves. Grants range from £100 to £2,500.
Although most funding is awarded to individuals, small community groups and small local charities based in England, Scotland or Wales can also apply.
Eligible organisations must provide a breakdown of their budget and their latest annual accounts.
Support is mainly available to individuals in England, Scotland and Wales who are:
Older people aged 65+.
Adults with a disability or mental health problem.
All applications for an individual must be supported by a third party sponsor, such as a health or personal care professional, social worker, charity or support group representative.
https://www.bhcfoundation.org.uk/
New planning rules for farmers
Under new planning rules, farmers are now able to convert agricultural buildings and land into new homes, sports facilities and shops without submitting a planning application. The amount of floorspace that can change from agricultural to "flexible commercial use" will also increase from 500 square metres to 1,000 square metres.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/planning-red-tape-slashed-for-farmers
Eat It Up Grant Fund
To fuel innovations that reduce edible food waste. Theywant 6 projects that will each be awarded with £60,000 to develop their ideas over a 12-month period. Applicants need to either have projects that have been tested and are ready to scale-up or projects that are in the earlier stages of planning, with a concept ready to test. It's open to most UK registered organisations.
Deadline: 14 June 2024
https://www.eatitupfund.org.uk/
Plans to help exporters win more business
UK Export Finance has published its 2024-29 Business Plan, which sets out measures to help exporters win over £12.5 billion in new business by 2029. The measures include more financing opportunities for smaller businesses and a commitment to support 1,000 SMEs a year by 2029 with help from local Chambers of Commerce.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ukef-unveils-plans-to-help-exporters-win-125-billion-in-new-business-by-2029
Youth Empowerment Scheme (YES) Merseyside
Part of the Merseyside's Police Commissioner and Merseyside Violence Reduction Partnership (MVRP). Community groups, charities and third sectors can bid for a grant of between £5,000 and £25,000 to run projects and programmes over the next year which give young people the opportunity to gain valuable skills and qualifications, build their confidence and make positive decisions for the future.
The funding pot which totals £414,000 brings together the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Youth Diversion Fund and the MVRP’s Arts | Culture | Sports Fund to create one new super youth fund designed to make it easier for organisations to apply for funding and to provide bigger grants that community groups can use all year round.
Deadline: 14 June 2024
https://www.merseysidepcc.info/down-to-business/grants-funding/yes-youth-empowerment-scheme
Diversity in Tech
An annual report tracking diversity in technology across the UK
The Tech Talent Charter is a not-for-profit that fights for better diversity and inclusion in tech. In today's climate of social division, technological advancement and economic strain, our efforts to create a fair and equitable society are under threat.
https://report.techtalentcharter.co.uk/diversity-in-tech
Welsh Water Community Fund
Community groups can apply for a grant up to £5,000. Example projects, improvements to the environment or local community initiatives promoting education, health, wellbeing and environmental objectives. Open to most non profits.
Deadline: 30 June 2024
https://corporate.dwrcymru.com/en/community/community-projects/community-fund
Investigation into Airbnb and short-let landlords
HMRC has opened almost 2,000 investigations into landlords who let out properties via Airbnb or other short-let platforms and have failed to declare rental income. This is a five-fold increase in the number of investigations since 2022/23 and is 20 times higher than in 2021/22.
https://www.landlordtoday.co.uk/breaking-news/2024/5/hmrc-launches-tax-clampdown-on-airbnb-and-short-lets-landlords
Smart Shipping Acceleration Fund
UK registered organisations can apply for a share of up to £8 million for innovative smart shipping technologies for maritime decarbonisation. Innovate UK Programme with funding from the Department for Transport (DfT). Award: Share of up to £8 million.
The aim of this competition is to fund detailed feasibility studies for innovative technology demonstrations of scalable smart shipping technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality.
Deadline: 26 June 2024
https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/smart-shipping-acceleration-fund/
Innovate UK's £20 million Mindset programme
Driving the growth of immersive digital mental health solutions in the UK.
A series of events around the UK where you can find out more about funding opportunities, and the Mindset-XR Innovation Support Programme delivered by Health Innovation Network (HIN) South London.
Who should attend? Anyone interested in mental health and immersive technology, including but not limited to:
● immersive tech companies
● clinicians
● researchers /academics
● innovators
● regulatory/ legal organisations
● voluntary sector
● creatives with an interest in mental health
● people with lived experience
Check their website for all the dates, first one is 25 June 2024
https://healthinnovationnetwork.com/resources/mindset-xr-innovation-support-programme/
FULLY FUNDED bursary MSc Entrepreneurship Masters degree at Staffordshire University
Do you live North of Birmingham City Centre? Designed to help those just starting a business to grow.
-The degree is free - £11k tuition fee covered by a bursary (if based in midlands).
-Designed for do-ers - it's practical, the curriculum is very accelerator-like - the aim is to build and scale your business through the year
-Funded by the Peter Coates Foundation (founder of Bet365, based in Staffs)
-At the end you get to pitch for £300,000 investment for 10% of your co, from the Foundation, who are extremely motivated to invest.
-Taught by James Routledge, George Bettany (cofounders of Sanctus), alongside a great academic team
60 days practical contact time, the rest you're working on your business, 1 year course
Graduate with an MSc Entrepreneurship degree. TRhanks for sharing as always Debbie Assinder.
https://lnkd.in/eUhEbAYc
AWS IMAGINE Grant Program U.K. & Ireland
A public grant opportunity open to registered nonprofit charities who are using cloud technology to accelerate their missions. The Go Further, Faster award will provide support for highly innovative projects that leverage the cloud. These projects will have the potential to produce scaled, repeatable solutions and may impact an entire industry or field. They will be force multipliers for organisations and will include the application of and/or seek integrations with advanced cloud services, such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), high performance computing (HPC), Internet of Things (IoT), and more. The Go Further, Faster award includes cash funding, AWS Promotional Credits, AWS marketing support, engagement with AWS technical specialists, and more.
Award package includes:
Up to $50,000 USD of financial support
Up to $16,000 USD in AWS Promotional Credit
Project kickoff workshop and implementation support from AWS technical specialist(s)
An opportunity for AWS marketing promotion
Eligibility:
● Have to be a charity, not a Community Interest Company.
https://aws.amazon.com/government-education/nonprofits/aws-imagine-grant-program/aws-imagine-grant-uk/
Place-based impact investing: Emerging impact and insights
Pension funds and other asset owners are increasingly seeking local investment opportunities. This trend is prompting asset managers to seek out investments that yield tangible local benefits alongside financial returns. At the same time, many local authorities are grappling with severe financial challenges, leading them to explore how to build effective partnerships with private investors that foster local economic regeneration.
https://www.impactinvest.org.uk/resources/publications/place-based-impact-investing-emerging-impact-and-insights/
DCMS Create Growth Programme competition three
UK registered SME’s in the creative sector can apply for funding of between £10,000 and £30,000 for innovation projects to grow their business. This funding is from DCMS
Eligibility
a UK registered micro, small or medium-sized enterprise
from the creative industries and focused on one or more of the creative industries sub-sectors
registered in one of the DCMS Create Growth Programme appointed regions
Deadline: 19 June 2024
https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/dcms-create-growth-programme-competition-three/
Free AI courses
1. AI Essentials - lnkd.in/dyEt4DGt
2. ChatGPT Mastery - lnkd.in/eiRtk-6q
3. Google AI Magic - lnkd.in/eBQXfBe9
4. Harvard AI Introduction - lnkd.in/eu4mZaAG
5. Microsoft AI Basics - lnkd.in/eYNWzXUX
6. Prompt Engineering Pro - lnkd.in/eNi_YNSe
7. Google's Ethical AI - lnkd.in/eTrwSU89
8. Machine Learning by Harvard - lnkd.in/eX28syMJ
Thanks for sharing Christina B from Melanin Travels.
Small Grants for charities with incomes under £200,000
Support for projects and organisations that focus on greening and growing, working with older people, working with Deaf and Disabled people, working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and working with migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers.
Area: Greater London
Funding size: Up to £20,000 per year for a maximum of five years
Deadline: Applications accepted on a rolling basis
https://www.citybridgefoundation.org.uk/funding/small-grants
Technology Grants to enable independence for people living with dementia
Apply for funding to develop a NetworkPlus focused on the use and development of novel tools and technologies to enable people with dementia to live independently. Networks should be multidisciplinary and embed people with lived experiences of dementia. You must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for EPSRC funding
Deadline: 10 September 2024
https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/technologies-to-enable-independence-for-people-living-with-dementia/
Green Grids Initiative (GGI)
Aims to accelerate the development of grid infrastructure globally. The GGI brings together an ecosystem of actors from across government, finance, regulators, operators, industry, academia and civil society to address key challenges and provide a conduit for investment and assistance to deliver the clean energy transition. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) is providing a grant to increase the capacity of the GGI through funding an externally hosted GGI Secretariat, which will allow the programme to expand on the current demand-driven approach and provide additional support to GGI's leading partners and programmes.
Deadline: 27 June 2024
https://www.greengridsinitiative.net/
Charities worse off since end of EU funding
Three quarters of employment services charities claim that they have received less funding since the European Social Fund was phased out and replaced with the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). Charities have also expressed concerns around the availability of UKSPF after March 2025 and about cash-strapped local authorities using funding to support their own employment support services.
https://www.civilsociety.co.uk/news/employment-services-charities-worse-off-since-eu-funding-loss-report-says.html
UK Social Enterprise Awards
Applications are now open for the 15 categories at this year's Awards to help capture the breadth, diversity and impact of the social enterprise community. As well as the award for overall Social Enterprise of the Year, and the 'One-to-Watch Award' recognising a pioneering start-up business, there are categories for social enterprises leading the way in fields from education and training to public services. The awards will also recognise social enterprises tackling the climate crisis as well as those working to promote equity, diversity, inclusion and justice.
Eligibility:
● You can only apply for three categories, and if you won a category in the 2022 or 2023 UK Awards you will not be shortlisted in that category
Deadline: Monday 24 June.
https://www.socialenterprise.org.uk/all-about-social-enterprise-uk/uk-social-enterprise-awards/
Fastest-growing retail categories revealed
In 2023 barbers, beauty salons and convenience stores were the fastest-growing retail categories across the UK. The fastest-declining categories were pubs, hairdressers and estate agents.
https://www.localdatacompany.com/blog/barbersvspubs
AI Adoption Accelerator Programme
AND Digital and TechWM are running a new 12-week initiative designed to support up to eight manufacturing SME’s based in the West Midlands with the knowledge, skills and practical tools they need to adopt AI in their business. It combines guided learning and expert 1-1 mentoring with hands-on experience designing an AI Proof of Concept and developing their scaling strategy alongside experts. The objective is to help lower the barrier to entry for AI adoption by giving them opportunity to learn, experiment and scale real AI use cases and support digital diffusion across the wider regional economy and ecosystem.
We are looking for up to eight small to medium businesses who are actively looking to implement data-driven and AI solutions into their operations, but don't know where to start.
Each of the participating businesses will receive access to industry-leading business support
https://www.and.digital/west-midlands-ai-adoption-accelerator-programme
Digital Direction
Birmingham City University’s (BCU) STEAMhouse also proudly offers funded memberships to local digital SMEs through the Barclays Eagle Labs Ecosystem Partnership Programme called Digital Direction. This collaboration aims to fuel growth and innovation within the region for digital industry by providing exclusive access to resources, events, and mentoring opportunities.
Successful applicants gain entry to STEAMhouse’s Digital Labs, equipped with cutting-edge technology and business and industry mentors to facilitate hands-on experimentation and skill development. Supported by Barclays Eagle Labs, the Digital Direction initiative fosters a collaborative environment, driving digital innovation and creating valuable opportunities for local entrepreneurs and graduates.
Apply here:
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=VeArfoqCI0W15bd62ZOXhcAdtn33rm5MpCGI9LIzg1FUMlFEOTFXSTc2RjNXMFdPUlJLMUdJTEtUTy4u
Youth Music Trailblazer fund
Offers grants of £2,000 to £30,000 to organisations in England to run projects for children and young people (25 or under) to make, learn and earn in music. The project should trial work for the first time, test a new way of working, or disrupt the status quo (or all three!).
Your work must meet one of our themes:
● Early years
● Disabled, d/Deaf and neurodivergent young people
● Youth justice system
● Young people facing barriers
● Young adults
● Organisations and the workforce.
Trailblazer Round 7
Deadline: 30 August 2024
Notification: 13 December 2024
For projects starting between January and March 2025
Trailblazer Round 8
Deadline: 22 November 2024
Notification: 21 March 2025
For projects starting between: April and June 2025
https://youthmusic.org.uk/trailblazer-fund
StartOut
Runs programs that connect LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs with mentors, experts, investors, and peer founders. Our suite of programs and resources offer LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs a way to grow and scale their business. US HQ’d, but they work in the UK as well.
https://startout.org/founders-program/
Funding to improve biodiversity observation capabilities in UK waters
Innovate UK and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) have announced seven winners receiving a share of £1.3 million.
https://www.ukri.org/news/funding-to-improve-biodiversity-observation-capabilities-in-uk-waters/
Place-Based Impact Investing (PBII)
Over the past few years, the expansion of place-based impact investing (PBII) has been apparent on various fronts. Pension funds and other asset owners are increasingly seeking local investment opportunities. This trend is prompting asset managers to seek out investments that yield tangible local benefits alongside financial returns. At the same time, many local authorities are grappling with severe financial challenges, leading them to explore how to build effective partnerships with private investors that foster local economic regeneration. Latest short report provides a snapshot of the evolving PBII landscape.
Download it here.
https://www.impactinvest.org.uk/
Wellcome is launching £20 million in new funding
To support researchers of Black, Bangladeshi and Pakistani heritage in the UK to stay in research and advance their careers.
There will be one funding round for the awards per year, for an initial four years, with an allocation of approximately £4.5 million per year. The awards will be for up to £200,000 per researcher, for up to two years.
https://wellcome.org/news/targeted-funding-researchers-black-bangladeshi-pakistani-heritage-uk
Funding for Charitable Social Housing Projects in Britain
The Quaker Housing Trust (QHT) offers advice, support, grants and interest-free loans to grassroots housing organisations across England, Scotland and Wales to help them provide safe, decent and affordable homes for people of all ages who are ‘often in desperate need’ of housing.
This includes:
● People with mental and physical health problems.
● People with learning difficulties.
● People who would otherwise be homeless.
● Women escaping domestic violence.
● Single parents.
● Young families.
● People moving out of institutional care.
● People with addiction problems.
● Refugees, asylum seekers, migrants.
● Survivors of trafficking.
This year, the Trust is particularly interested in projects from areas geographically underrepresented in previous grant applications (Wales and the East of England) and minoritised communities.
Eligibility:
● Charitable organisations with an annual turnover of up to £1 million and without access to sufficient income, reserves, nor other fundraising, to pay for the work they want to do can apply for:
Best Practice Grants - up to £6,000 to pay for professional fees associated either with an environmental assessment or testing the feasibility of specific proposals to improve, expand or create new genuinely affordable rented housing.
Main Grants and interest free loans - up to £50,000 for a mixture of grants and loans. Up to £25,000 for grants.
Five funding rounds per year.
Next deadline: 12 June 2024.
https://www.qht.org.uk/
Diverse and inclusive stock photos
It’s important to select visuals that correctly reflect and represent the citizens and communities that you support. Here you will find a list of websites where you can find diverse and inclusive stock photos. Many of the image libraries also contain photos featuring digital and technology.
The photos on these websites are free to use, but do make sure you read the terms and conditions beforehand.
https://digitalnns.org.uk/resources/diverse-and-inclusive-stock-photos/
Investment Readiness Programme for Under-Represented Founders
Focused on giving you the tools and know-how to optimise your next round of funding, with a focus on under-represented founder groups delivered by Mountside Ventures.
Across 5 days over 6 weeks, we will cover key areas of the fundraising process, including funding options, strategy, financial modelling, valuations, term sheets and building out a robust fundraising campaign.
You will also receive 1 on 1 support to dive deep into your individual value and investor propositions.
The programme is for entrepreneurs with some traction looking for funding in the next 3-9 months.
www.mountsideventures.com/accelerator
Grants to Help Children & Young People Make, Learn & Earn in Music (England)
Up to £30,000 are available to organisations in England for projects that support children and young people facing barriers to make, learn and earn in music. The funding is made available through the Youth Music Trailblazer fund which supports organisations who want to trial work for the first time, test a new way of working, or disrupt the status quo - or all three. Organisations less than one year old can apply for up to £15,000. A minimum of 10% match funding is required. A minimum of 10% match funding is required.
Deadline: 23rd June 2023.
https://youthmusic.org.uk/funding
NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator
Fully funded Accelerator is now OPEN for applications for the September 2024 cohort. 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 hosts regular brilliant networking & informational events.
If you have questions, want to better understand what’s on offer and meet the team, so we have created some face to face Application Discovery Events hosted at your local Accelerator Hub.
To attend the physical Birmingham hub events register here.
Applications open: 27th May 2024
https://www.natwest.com/business/business-services/entrepreneur-accelerator.html?furl=w_/accelerator
NatWest SE100 Social Business Awards
The SE100 Social Business Awards are part of an annual programme to celebrate, connect and share learning among the UK's 100 most impressive social businesses. The initiative was created by Pioneers Post, and run in partnership with NatWest Social & Community Capital.
In addition to NatWest S&CC, this year's awards are supported by a range of partners working to help build and strengthen the social impact market, who this year include Buzzacott, Hogan Lovells, the Social Investment Business, Impact Reporting and Good Finance.
On the evening they'll be presenting awards to winners from 7categories for their achievements across social impact. take place on Tuesday in London and will also be streamed live, online.
Cost: Free
When: 16 July 2024
Where: in-person AND online
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/natwest-se100-social-business-awards-2024-registration-909789363477
Innovation Funding and Support for Black Country Manufacturers breakfast
Organised in partnership with WMG. During this breakfast briefing, you will discover a wide range of innovation and growth opportunities, including funding, grants and manufacturing support.
Cost: Free
When: 11 June 2024
Where: National Brownfield Institute, Wolverhampton
https://allevents.in/wolverhampton/innovation-funding-and-support-for-black-country-manufacturers/80005073723820#google_vignette
Black Founder Accelerator
This programme is designed to champion diversity in entrepreneurship and showcase Black Founder-led businesses
https://labs.uk.barclays/what-we-offer/our-programmes/
https://academy.uk.barclays/
Breaking into Tech with Uber and Friends
Psalt create a world beyond labels, where all are appreciated and valued for the talents they have. They teach people to challenge themselves and provide tools, resources and access to expertise.
When: 26 June 2024, 6-9pm
Where: London, England
https://lu.ma/uberandfriends
Digital Dairy Chain: collaborative R&D and growth round two SIPF
UK registered organisations can apply for a share of up to £1.1 million for business focussed innovation in advanced and high value dairy production and manufacturing. This funding is from Digital Dairy Chain for Cumbria, South and West Scotland.
Eligibility
● open to collaborations only.
● either a UK registered business or a UK farming business
● able to evidence you are an established business, includes sole traders and partnerships
● based in Cumbria, South/ West Scotland or carry out economic activity in that region
Deadline: 19 June 2024
https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/digital-dairy-chain-collaborative-rd-and-growth-round-two-sipf/
Trafford Shop Improvement Grant
A capital grant scheme that can help new and existing businesses to grow in Trafford by providing a one-off grant to support the refurbishment of town centre retail premises. The maximum grant available is £10,000, however in exceptional circumstances Trafford Council retain the right to award larger amounts based on the delivery of the outputs.
Successful applicants will also be required to evidence a minimum of 50% match funding. The purpose of the grant fund is to support new business and the sustainability of existing businesses in Trafford. Funding from this grant scheme has come from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (DLUHC).
Location North West England
Deadline: 30 September 2024
https://www.trafford.gov.uk/business/business-support-advice-and-funding/Trafford-Shop-Improvement-Grant.aspx
Funding to Promote the Growth and Development of Sculpture Across the UK
Henry Moore Foundation is offering grants of up to £20,000 for art galleries, museums, and other not-for-profit organisations concerned with art and art history across the UK to support projects that promote the growth and development of sculpture across historical, modern, and contemporary registers, and research that expands the appreciation of sculpture.
The Foundation offers funding in the following categories:
● New projects and commissions:
● Acquisitions and collections:
● Research and development:
● Conferences, lectures, and publications:
There are typically four deadlines per year.
https://henry-moore.org/what-we-do/grants-fellowships/
Green Advantage- Skills Bootcamp in Sustainability
A short course designed for business leaders, managers and professionals who want to consider the implications of climate and environmental challenges for their business or workplace alongside maintaining business performance and profitability.
Green Advantage is funded for some attendees by the Government Department for Education via the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) as part of the Government's Skills Bootcamps.
The Course:
A 12-week part-time course
Workshops – blended delivery available
4 hours of one-to-one coaching from a business sustainability expert
Delivered by Aston Centre for Growth in partnership with The Energy & Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI) and the Centre for Circular Economy and Advanced Sustainability at Aston University.
https://www.aston.ac.uk/research/bss/abs/centres-hubs/aston-centre-for-growth/green-advantage
UnLtd
Grants of up to £18,000 plus business support are available to social entrepreneurs that are looking to start or grow an existing social venture. The funding is being made available through the UnLtd the leading provider of support to social entrepreneurs in and around the UK.
UnLtd are committed to providing 50% of their awards to Black, Asian and minority ethnic social entrepreneurs, and/or disabled social entrepreneurs. To be eligible applicants need to be aged 16 or over, living in the UK and are looking to fulfil a clear social need and demand. The closing date for this funding round is the 30th June 2024.
https://www.unltd.org.uk/awards/
Funding to Support Music and Heritage Projects Across the UK
Radcliffe Trust is offering grants averaging between £2,500 and £7,500:
Music - Classical music performance and training.
Heritage & Crafts - Development of the skills, knowledge and experience that underpin the UK’s traditional cultural heritage and crafts sectors.
There are typically rounds per year, with trustee meetings held in June and December. Groups can apply for both a Music grant and a Heritage & Crafts grant in the same funding round.
Eligibility:
● Charities, not-for-profit groups, and exempt organisations for projects
Deadline: 31 July 2024
https://theradcliffetrust.org/
City Bridge Foundation
Small Grant support for projects and organisations that focus on greening and growing, working with older people, working with Deaf and Disabled people, working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and working with migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers.
Eligibility:
Charities with incomes under £200,000. Funding up to £20,000 per year for a maximum of five years. To give smaller organisations easier access to funding in the following five strands:
1) Environmental, greening and growing
2) Working with older people
3) Working with Deaf and Disabled people
4) Working with the LGBTQIA+ community
5) Working with migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers
Deadline: Applications on a rolling basis
https://www.citybridgefoundation.org.uk/funding/small-grants
3,000 military start-ups supported
X-Forces Enterprise and the Start Up Loans programme have provided 3,000 entrepreneurs in the armed forces with funding and support to start a business. Since 2013, a total of £33.5 million has been provided in funding to support service leavers, veterans, reservists and military spouses.
https://www.startuploans.co.uk/media-centre/3000-military-entrepreneurs-empowered-by-33-5m-of-british-business-bank-finance-sparking-job-growth-and-elevating-the-uk-economy/
BT Sustainability programme
Delivered by Small Business Britain in partnership with BT, is a free six-week CPD Accredited programme offering vital sustainability training to small businesses.
The programme starts on will help entrepreneurs understand and make the most of the incredible opportunities that sustainability can bring.
The weekly workshops will be recorded and uploaded to a private page of the Small Business Britain website, to ensure the programme is accessible to all.
The interactive course will cover the following topics:
● Making an Action Plan
● Technology to Boost Your Sustainability Goals (Including Using AI!)
● Dealing with Overwhelm in the Sustainability Space
● Sustainable Branding and Building Your Social Media Content
● Sustainable Business Operations and the Circular Economy
● Green Grants and Pitching for Finance
When: 09 September 2024
Where: Online
Cost: Free
https://smallbusinessbritain.uk/sustainability-for-small-business
NFU Mutual Charitable Trust
Offering grants for organisations working in agriculture, rural development, and insurance across the UK to deliver projects and activities across one or more of the Trust’s main objectives:
● To advance the education of the public using research and dissemination of information concerning agriculture.
● To advance the education of young people within rural areas.
● To relieve poverty within rural areas.
● To promote the benefit and social welfare of inhabitants of rural communities by associating together with the inhabitants and local authorities, voluntary and other organisations to advance education and leisure.
● To promote research into agricultural-associated activities.
● To advance the education of the public using research and dissemination of information concerning insurance.
Priority will be given to larger initiatives that would have a significant impact on rural communities, as well as initiatives in the areas of education of young people in rural areas and relief of poverty within rural areas.
Trustees meet twice a year to consider applications, typically in June and November.
Deadline: 04 October 2024
https://www.nfumutual.co.uk/about-us/charitable-trust/
Armed Forces Families Fund Early Years Programme
Grants of between £5,000 and £50,000 are available for projects lasting up to two years which help enhance early childhood education and childcare settings of young children from Armed Forces families.
Projects must clearly benefit Armed Forces families with a child under 5 by enhancing their access to high quality childcare and contribute to at least one of the following three outcomes:
● Increased capacity at the setting to allow more Service children to attend.
● Better learning environments for Service children.
● Have provided appropriate training and development to staff to support Service children.
Applicant organisations must be based and registered in the UK, be a registered charity, a CIC, or a company limited by guarantee, or a local authority in one of the four countries of the UK. Private limited companies that have been registered, and been working in the Early Years sector, for at least three years can also apply.
There are two ways to apply for a grant under this programme:
● Single Applications
● Groups or Clusters
The Armed Forces Covenant Trust, which is delivering this programme on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, will hold An Early Years Programme Lunch and Learn webinar on 12 June 2024 (12pm-1pm). Registration is required and can be done on the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust website.
There are two funding rounds this year.
Deadlines: 24 July 2024 and 20 November 2024.
https://covenantfund.org.uk/programme/armed-forces-families-fund-early-years-programme-2024-25/
Santander X Global Challenge | Innovation in Healthcare
A challenge for startups or scale-ups targeting one of these areas:
● Efficiency in medical practice
● Public digital technologies
● Patient care
The winners will receive 120,000 euros in prizes, access to the Santander X 100 global community and a connection to the Fintech Station, Banco Santander's open innovation area.
Deadline: 11 July 2024
https://app.santanderx.com/calls/santander-x-global-challenge-innovation-in-healthcare
Increase in funding provided by CDFIs
In 2023, community development finance institutions (CDFIs) lent £102 million to over 4,500 start-ups and established small businesses across the UK. This was a 26% increase on 2022 and helped create 3,829 new enterprises and 662 businesses to scale up. Around £119 million was also lent to 371 social enterprises.
https://responsiblefinance.org.uk/2024/05/record-year-of-community-development-finance-to-people-and-enterprises-across-uk/
JLR Innovation Challenge
JLR’s experts, gain access to cutting-edge facilities, and potentially secure investment and strategic partnerships to accelerate their growth. A £90,000 prize pot will be awarded to successful innovations - divided across one winner and two runners up.
What you get:
• Mentorship from industry leaders and technical experts
• Access to JLR’s global ecosystem and resources
• Visibility on an international platform
• Potential for Investment and strategic collaborations or POCs.
Deadline: 31 July 2024
https://jlr-innovationchallenge.com/
Fairer Futures Fund – Citywide Small Grants
The Fund is set to improve outcomes and tackle inequalities by funding community organisations and projects across Birmingham to address health inequalities.
The creation of this Fund is due to Birmingham and Solihull’s Integrated Care System’s ambition; to transform how health and care services are delivered in the region. The Fund is intended to support targeted interventions to:
Reduce inequalities in health and wellbeing outcomes for communities of place, identity, and experience.
Deadline: 12 July 2024
https://www.heartofenglandcf.co.uk/ffcw-small-grants/
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