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

Revised: August 2023

Hi people,

There are so many opportunities in this month’s issue discovered & generously shared with me. I didn’t want to not include them all, hence it’s longer than usual. My humble advice for those of you who are stuck for time, is scroll through really quickly until something pops.

Featured this month is great work by Lucia Webster in the Cabinet Office. A grant finder with information on all government grants, all in one place. I was honoured to be part of the pilot. They’re still rolling it out, so expect a few glitches, but overall its a great service.

Massive shoutout to the Clothworkers fund. If you are running a social enterprise charity, CIC, not-for-profit check out their website. They fund so many things and for so many under-represented, under-supported groups. From helping to purchase buildings, buying vehicles, supporting the arts, caregivers, etc.

Many regions are launching grants and initiatives funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to support social good. I’ve added quite a few and grants from private organisations. Cornwall has got a load, so use my ‘Top Tip’ below to see if an equivalent is available in your area.

Innovate UK are looking for grant Assessors. Training is provided. So if you’re thinking of applying for a grant in the not-so-distant-future, this will definitely help!

Featured report is by Integro Accounting which evidences tech layoffs are affecting women, more than men.

Stay amazing, stay courageous

Drew

Drew Currie

Founder, hibretOne CIC

Top Tips for New Subscribers:

·        If a grant or programme is not shown in your region, many funds listed are for the W Midlands, where I am (or Cornwall). Google search the keywords within the grant.

·        Programme may be running in your area, under a different name.

LATEST:

Find a Grant service launched

A new UK-wide online resource has been launched for organisations applying for government grants. Find a Grant includes over 200 funding schemes.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-service-for-accessing-government-support-to-save-taxpayer-over-200-million

AI & Future Tech Forum

Part of the West Midlands Innovation Programme, bringing together founders, entrepreneurs and business leaders from across the West Midlands. A forum for sharing cutting-edge insight on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing and augmented reality.

Cost: Free

Date: 15th August 2023 4 - 7:30pm

Location: iCentrum, Birmingham

Note: Will see you at this informative event, so do say hello.

https://techwm.com/ai/

NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator

Award winning FREE Accelerator. The largest in Europe right on your doorstep & largest in-person. A hybrid in-person and virtual offering this Accelerator is fantastic! Places are competitive.

However you can, make sure you get on this NatWest Programme. Great team at all the locations I’ve attended & they are always approachable.

Programme starts with the IGNITION event w/c September 11th 2023 and extends over six months. NatWest support includes:

·        one-to-one in-person coaching with experienced Acceleration Managers

·        a programme of thought leadership and events

·        access to a network of like-minded peers

·        focused support with access to experts from across your specialism

·        modern co-working spaces nationwide hubs

·        fantastic contacts

Deadline for applications: 18 August 2023

www.natwest.com/business/business-services/entrepreneur-accelerator.html

Tour of the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC)

A talk on available grants & funded support. Followed by a tour of the Manufacturing Technology Centre in Coventry, includes Breakfast.

Cost: Free

Date: Tuesday 12th September, 7:30-10am

Location: The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), Ansty Park, Coventry, CV7 9JU

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/manufacturers-breakfast-grants-funded-support-and-tour-of-the-mtc-tickets-687943887687

Immerse Level Up Accelerator 

Designed exclusively for visionary founders who are revenue-generating and ready to take their businesses to the next level. Access to £20k funding pot for businesses.

We understand the challenges you face as you begin to scale your business and have curated a series of dynamic workshops including, refine your business model, legal and finance essentials, sales and marketing for growth, pitching, expanding your team, and more.

Eligibility:

·        UK Registered Business

·        In operation for at least 18 months

·        Diverse applicants must demonstrate a minimum revenue or investment of £10,000 and a maximum of £30,000

·        Have at least 1 team member (voluntary or part-time)

Deadline: 04 September 2023

https://www.foundervine.com/immerse-levelup-accelerator

Clothworkers

Our Open Grants Programme accepts applications from UK registered charities or not-for-profits and who meet our eligibility criteria, for funding towards capital projects. The work of the organisation must fit within one or more of our specified programme areas. This Programme does not award grants for work outside the UK, even if the organisation is a UK-registered charity.

The Proactive Grants Programme allows us to fund more strategically, and to develop a greater level of knowledge and understanding of specific sectors. Unlike the Open Grants Programme, most of our Proactive Grants are for multi-year revenue projects where we are often the sole funder.

Note: Their Proactive Grants Programme is not currently open to applications. Subscribe to the newsletter so you know when it opens again.

https://www.clothworkersfoundation.org.uk/what-we-fund/

DIATOMIC ACCELERATOR

New technologies and ideas supported to improve housing, parks and waste management services in Birmingham.

Looking for new ideas around how to engage better with local people and improve training and knowledge sharing among service delivery teams. 

Eligibility:

·        UK-registered business, preferably based in the West Midlands 

·        Innovation solution at least TRL 4 

·        Must address one or more of the identified challenge areas 

Deadline: 10 September 2023

https://cp.catapult.org.uk/opportunity/diatomic/

Lloyds Bank Foundation

Support collaborations led by small charities seeking to achieve local or regional change. Collaborations can apply for grants of £100,000 over two years.

Your influencing work will align with at least one of the following themes:

making the social security system work better for those facing the greatest challenges;

making sure people facing complex issues have access to suitable accommodation;

improving support and services for asylum seekers and refugees.

Eligibility:

·        Charitable organisation

·        1 year of accounts

·        Annual income over £25k

·        Expression of Interest by 22 September

www.lloydsbankfoundation.org.uk/funding/local-collaborations

Super prime, rent-free stores in Oxford Street

Opportunities to have your products in the most high-profile retail streets in the world.

Stores will all be all based in prime Oxford Street locations, for upto six months each and 100% rent-free. Winning brands may be given single occupancy or invited to join a curated concept store shared between like-minded brands.

All brands will benefit from the following:

Stores fully white-boxed

Minimum 70% discount on business rates

Full support and mentoring from Someday Studios and Westminster City Council

Design support from expert store design partners

Marketing and PR support

Eligibility:

·        Emerging startups and creatives.

https://www.somedaystudios.co.uk/oxfordstreet

Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM) Launch Event

Official launch of the successor to the wider GBSLEP Growth Hub. Hear about the new support programmes and grants launching shortly for West Midlands businesses. Network with business support professionals and fellow business leaders; meet the people who can help overcome business challenges. Access free business support opportunities in the exhibition area.

Date: 12th September 2023, 9.30am to 4.30pm

Location: Coventry Building Society Arena Judds Lane Coventry CV6 6GE

Cost: Free

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/business-growth-west-midlands-launch-event-tickets-677967668547

Bristol Impact Fund (BIF 2)

Small grants round, continues to put community building at the forefront of Bristol City Council's response to tackling inequality in the city. The fund will award grants to VCSE groups in the city to build capacity in communities that have experienced the greatest inequality and empower them to act on the issues that matter most to their communities.

Deadline: 14th August 2023

https://www.bristol.gov.uk/residents/people-and-communities/voluntary-and-community-organisations/grants-for-voluntary-and-community-organisations/the-bristol-impact-fund

Fund Launched to Tackle Food Waste

The Eat it Up fund with £200,000 to support ideas that tackle food waste. Grants up to £40,000 available to support innovative initiatives in this field. welcomes applications from

Eligibility:

·        Organisations registered in the UK,

·        Including charities, social enterprises, community interest companies, schools, universities, colleges, local authorities,

·        Micro/small businesses with a social purpose. Launched by the environmental charity Hubbub in partnership with Starbucks to tackle food waste.

Deadline for expressions of interest: Friday, July 21, 2023

Deadline full applications: Friday, September 22, 2023.

https://www.eatitupfund.org.uk/

Funding to Tackle Consumer Experiences Within Disadvantaged Communities

Consumer organisation Which? has launched a new £75,000 Fund, to support a few research projects that improve the understanding of consumer harms experienced by diverse and disadvantaged communities in the UK, and to develop solutions to tackle these harms. Target audience can include women, people living with disabilities or health conditions, low-income households or members of diverse ethnic communities.

Projects will need to address the following four impact areas: money, consumer rights and protections, digital life, and scams.

Eligibility:

·        UK registered charities, universities, and not-for-profit Community Interest Companies

Deadline: 18th September 2023.

https://www.which.co.uk/policy-and-insight/article/what-we-fund-aEGCe3B7B62s

Grants to Support Individuals & Families in Need

Upto £2,000 are available to charities, housing associations, schools and social services providing support for individuals and families across the UK who are in financial need. The Cosaraf Charitable Foundation's Hardship Grants will support individuals and families who have exhausted all other sources of funding and are struggling with everyday costs, such as basic living expenses, household items and utilities, work- or education-related expenses, or rent arrears.

Eligibility:

·        Based in UK

·        Priority will be given to the most financially excluded people, families over individuals, those with caring responsibilities, and to items that will make the most difference to the individual/family's long-term future.

Deadline: Applications can be made at any time and are assessed every six weeks.

https://www.cosaraf.org/apply-for-funding/hardship-grants/

Grants for Older People on Low Incomes

Upto £500 to support vulnerable older people living on low incomes. Funding through charity Friends of the Elderly assists individuals and couples over state pension age, have savings of less than £5,000, and do not meet the criteria for other funders.

Funding aims to assist with various needs such as purchasing a new fridge, paying unexpected bills, obtaining food and clothing, or covering gas and electricity costs. To apply for these grants, individuals must submit their applications through a third-party Referral Agent. Acceptable Referral Agents include charities, local authorities, housing associations, community organisations, Information, Advice and Guidance providers, as well as social services representatives.

Eligibility:

·        England & Wales

Deadline: Applications can be submitted at any time.

https://www.fote.org.uk/our-charity-work/grants-2/

Funding to Tackle Homelessness (UK)

LandAid is making funding available to enable charities and other not-for-profit organisations to create new bedspaces for young people aged 16 to 25 who are or have been homeless. The Routes Out of Homelessness Grant Programmes are designed to create additional bedspaces of different types: the Safe Places programme provides short and medium-term bedspaces in volunteer or paid households for emergency housing; the Capital Grants programme funds bedspaces owned or leased by not-for-profit organisations, including new builds, renovations, and other innovative capital projects; and the Move-on Grants programme assists young people facing barriers in accessing rental accommodation as they move into independent living.

Partnership applications are welcomed.

Deadline: 4th September 2023.

https://www.landaid.org/apply-for-funding-support/grants-landaid-offers

Deaf and Disabled People Grant

Grants of up to £75,000 for Charities led by and working with d/deaf and disabled people. Those experiencing poverty can apply for a three-year unrestricted grant of up to £75,000. The funding is being made available through the Lloyds Bank Foundation.

Eligibility:

·        Led by the communities they serve, small and local charities in England and Wales

·        Provide advice and/or advocacy on social security

·        Deliver services that meet the individual needs of Disabled people

·        Annual income of between £25,000 and £500,000.

Deadline: 31st August 2023.

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

Grants to Help Vulnerable Communities

In response to the cost-of-living crisis, the National Lottery Community Fund is making funding available for projects that help support individuals, families and communities currently experiencing financial hardship. Through the Cost-of-Living Support Scotland Grants programme, grants of between £10,001 and £75,000 will be awarded for activity that increases resilience and reduces the impact of, or prevents financial insecurity amongst vulnerable communities.

Examples of the types of projects that could be funded include money advice projects, mental health projects, projects bringing people together for activities under one roof, and 'warm room' projects.

Eligibility:

·        Scotland

Deadline: Applications can be made at any time.

https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/programmes/cost-of-living-support-fund

Inquiry into small business finance

The Treasury Committee has launched an inquiry into small business access to finance and lending. The cross party Committee of MPs will examine the key challenges smaller businesses face when seeking finance, the regulation of small business lending, and the role the Government can play in enhancing lending to small businesses.

https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/158/treasury-committee/news/196093/mps-launch-inquiry-into-the-financing-of-small-and-mediumsized-enterprises/

Support to help startups in Scotland

The Scottish Government has announced a £17.5 million funding package to support start-ups in Scotland. Additional funding will also be provided to develop pre-start centres and pop-ups to help women start up in business.

https://www.gov.scot/news/seizing-the-benefits-of-start-ups/

Local authorities failing on rural funding

Agricultural advisors have expressed concerns over whether the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) can deliver on diversification promises. The REPF, which was announced in September 2022, is delivered by Local Authorities. Industry advisors have warned that as local authorities have not run capital grants schemes for rural businesses before it is unlikely that the REPF will enable the rural economy to thrive.

https://www.farmersguardian.com/news/4117862/local-authorities-failing-rural-prosperity-fund

Plans to encourage student entrepreneurship

The Scottish Government has published recommendations to help create world-class entrepreneurial campuses at 45 universities and colleges across Scotland. The recommendations include plans to teach practical entrepreneurial skills as part of the wider university and college curriculum and to support more spin-out companies to commercialise.

https://www.gov.scot/news/inspiring-and-supporting-the-next-generation-of-entrepreneurs/

Innovation in Professional & Financial Services R2 Single

UK registered businesses can apply for a share of up to £5 million for projects that develop new products and services within Professional and Financial Services.

Eligibility

This competition is open to single applicants only.

Lead organisation must be a UK registered SME.

Deadline: 27 September 2023

https://apply-for-innovation-funding.service.gov.uk/competition/1666/overview/3416b899-982e-4250-adbe-02949cc039e9

UK Tech Sector Layoffs Falling Hardest on Women

20.1% of UK tech employees are women, down from 22.7% in 2021. Job losses in the UK tech sector have fallen disproportionately on women, according to an analysis of National Statistics data commissioned by Integro Accounting, a provider of accountancy services to IT contractors.

At the same time, however, the overall size of the UK tech workforce continued to grow, despite layoffs in the tech sector beginning in the Autumn of 2022.

https://londonnews.tech/en/article/92892/uk-tech-sector-layoffs-falling-hardest-on

Future Economy Investor Partnerships SME: round 3

UK businesses can apply for grant funding alongside private investment from selected investor partners. Project’s total costs will depend on your research category and are between £50,000 to £300,000 for feasibility studies; £100,000 and £1 million for industrial research; £250,000 and £2 million for experimental development.

Specific themes:

·        Net Zero

·        Health and Wellbeing

·        Next generation digital technologies

·        Knows No Limit (equality, diversity and inclusion)

Eligibility:

·        be a UK registered micro, small or medium sized business (SME)

·        carry out its project work in or from the UK

Deadline: 30 August 2023

https://iuk.ktn-uk.org/programme/investor-partnerships-future-economy/

UK Global Screen Fund International Distribution Festival Launch Support

British Film Institute supporting the festival launch of UK films to enhance promotion, reach and value internationally. Up to £15,000 from a grant pot of £1 million.

Eligibility:

·        Location National.

·        Public Sector, Non-profit, Private Sector

Deadline: 31 March 2024

https://www.bfi.org.uk/get-funding-support/funding-support-international-activity/uk-global-screen-fund/making-application-uk-global-screen-fund-international-distribution-festival-launch-support-funding

Become an Innovate UK Assessor

To review applications in the Health and Life Sciences area. Training will be given. Assessors are sought from a range of backgrounds including, but not limited to:

·        Neuroscience (neurodegeneration, neurotech)

·        Infectious disease (including AMR and vaccines)

·        Female health innovation

·        Oncology

·        Mental health

Eligibility:

Senior positions in these areas and can demonstrate a track record of success in developing, commissioning or implementing health and life science innovations.

https://iuk.ktn-uk.org/news/health-and-life-sciences-assessor-recruitment/

Knowledge transfer partnerships (KTP): 2023 to 2024 Round 4

UK registered academic institutions, RTOs or Catapults can apply for a share of up to £9 million to fund innovation projects with businesses or not for profits.

Eligibility

·        UK registered higher/ further education institution, research and technology organisation (RTO) or Catapult

·        collaborate with a UK business of any size, eligible public sector organisation, charity

·        charitable business with 2 or more full time employees

The business must contribute to the project’s costs.

Deadline: 06 September 2023

https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/knowledge-transfer-partnerships-ktp-2023-to-2024-round-four/

European Social Funded (ESF) short courses

University of Derby have European Social Funded, short courses available, covering a wide range of leadership, business skills and data management subjects, including ChatGPT & Microsoft.

Eligibility:

·        Employees in SME’s & charities across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire (D2N2 region).

Cost: Free

Deadline: December 2023

https://www.medilinkmidlands.com/european-social-funded-esf-short-courses

BioNow Digital Pitching Competition

Applications are invited from lifescience companies seeking or shortly starting to seek funding, and successful applicants are given the opportunity to present their company overview, request and need for funding to an online panel of investors in an 8-minute “pitch”.

Deadline: 8th September 2023

https://www.bionow.co.uk/event/BIONOW162/2023-biocap-conference

Amazon launches new innovation accelerator

Amazon has launched an innovation accelerator to help small manufacturers understand and overcome operational challenges by using digital technologies. Programme includes free seminars and one-to-one mentoring from Amazon.

https://www.aboutamazon.co.uk/news/small-businesses/amazon-launches-new-innovation-accelerator-to-supercharge-the-growth-of-small-businesses

Resilience and Innovation Grant

Supporting businesses to invest in growth and resilience. 50% of eligible capital from £5,000 up to a maximum of £50,000. Fund allocation is £1.9million. SEMLEP’s Growth Hub advisers also host quarterly grant workshops to support applicants.

Eligibility:

·        Submit Expression of Interest via online form.

·        Trading businesses in South East Midlands.

Deadline: 15th September 2023

www.semlepgrowthhub.com/resilienceinnovationfund/

Niyo Bootcamps

My favourite sista’s have secured funding to sponsor 120 black women to learn tech skills or entrepreneurship. If you’re looking to career-change into tech OR learn skills that will help in launching/scaling a business idea in:

·        Marketing for Digital Entrepreneurship OR Tech Founders

·        Data Analytics with project management

·        Web Development

Eligibility:

·        Black women based in the West Midlands.

https://bootcamps.niyo.co/bootcamps

Innovate UK Unlocking Potential Award 2023: Begin

Innovators can apply for an award to make their business idea a reality. The award will include a grant for £5,000, a living allowance and tailored business support.

Eligibility

·        open to sole applicants only.

·        identify with a community that is currently considered by Innovate UK as underrepresented in the innovation ecosystem

·        be a UK resident, carry out all project work in the UK, and exploit the results from or in the UK

·        be aged 18 and above on the date of competition close

·        be able to commit on average 15 hours per week to working on your funded project

·        not previously received any Innovate UK awards

Deadline: 06 September 2023

https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/innovate-uk-unlocking-potential-award-2023-begin/

Innovate UK Unlocking Potential Award 2023: Build

Innovators can apply for an award to make their business idea a reality. The award will include a grant for £50,000 and tailored business support.

Eligibility

open to sole applicants only.

·        identify with a community that is currently considered by Innovate UK as underrepresented in the innovation ecosystem

·        be a UK resident, carry out all project work in the UK, and exploit the results from or in the UK

·        be aged 18 and above on the date of competition close

·        be able to commit on average 15 hours per week to working on your funded project

·        not have received any Innovate UK award

Deadline: 06 September 2023

https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/innovate-uk-unlocking-potential-award-2023-build/

Eurostars call for projects SEP 2023

Supporting innovative SMEs and project partners (large companies, universities, research organisations and other types of organisations) by funding international collaborative R&D and innovation projects.

Eligibility:

·        Consortium led by an innovative SME from a Eurostars country

·        Consortium composed of at least two entities that are independent of one another.

·        Entities from at least two Eurostars countries with at least one organisation coming from an EU or Horizon Europe Associated Country

·        No single participant or country is responsible for more than 70% of the project budget

·        Project duration is 36 months or less

·        UK SME’s are still eligible.

Deadline: 14 September 2023

Note:

Eurostar applications are very difficult to apply for. Upside some of the calls have a 30% success rate, partly because applying is so hard. Don’t try to apply on your own, it’s too complicated! Try to find a sector specialist.

https://www.eurekanetwork.org/countries/united-kingdom/

European Prize for Women Innovators

Female entrepreneurs with an innovative idea bringing positive change to society. The chance to be celebrated and rewarded for your hard work.

European Innovation Council (EIC) and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) are taking their partnership to the next level to organise the revamped European Prize for Women Innovators. This bigger and bolder competition will reward an even wider community of women innovators, celebrating their achievements and giving them more opportunities than ever!

Deadline: 27 September 2023

https://eic.ec.europa.eu/eic-prizes/european-prize-women-innovators-powered-eic-eit_en

GSK Health Inequalities programme

Up to 15 charities will receive up to £10,000 in unrestricted funding and access to training and development valued at £2,700. Actively encourage organisations to apply that are led by and support people from under-represented backgrounds, people from ethnic minority communities, people with disabilities and people from the LGBTQ+ community, who are most likely to be affected by these issues.

Eligibility:

·        UK registered charities at least one year old.

·        Total annual income between £20,000 and £150,000.

Deadline: 14 August 2023

Note: Probably too tight for this call, but subscribe to their newsletter for the next one.

www.kingsfund.org.uk/projects/gsk-impact-awards/gsk-health-inequalities-programme

INSIGHT: Inspiring Students into Research Round 1

Aims to attract students in registered healthcare, social work and public health professions (not including doctors and dentists) into the full range of research careers. Up to £40,000 per year towards research engagement activities and administration/project management support.

Eligibility:

·        Higher Education Institutions (HEI)

·        Applicants are encouraged to be collaborative

·        HEIs can apply for three years of funding to deliver:

·        Innovative Engagement Programmes that showcase and attract people into the full range of research careers, including careers that combine research and practice.

https://www.nihr.ac.uk/funding/insight-inspiring-students-into-research-round-1/33576

WM SME Grant Programme

Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). The WMGP is a support package designed to help small to medium sized enterprises across all sectors based in the Birmingham City Council and Shropshire Council local authority areas.

This programme is funded by the UKSPF and administered by Birmingham City Council.

Launches: 03 April 2023

www.birmingham.gov.uk/wmgp

Barclays Entrepreneur Awards

Eight award categories to choose from, with helpful tips on preparing your nomination submissions.

events.

barclays.com/website/57095/ea23-award-categories

Barclays Programmes

Lots & lots of programmes almost whatever stage your business is at. These are on a rolling basis and they are all free as well. Subscribe to their newsletter for latest updates.

Cost: All programmes are free, most are remote.

Note: Subscribe to the Barclays newsletter, as they run many programmes.

labs.uk.barclays/what-we-offer/our-programmes

Breathable Cities Accelerator

Dedicated to reducing air pollution in cities by helping early-stage startups get investment. Cohort share upto £150,000 in pre-seed investment.

Applications are now closed. However, sign up to receive updates, news, and invitations to the programme events

12-14 week programme

lp.growthstudio.com/breathablecities

Community Levelling Up Programme (CLUP)

Supports community-level investment plans for Good Growth across. Primary goals of the programmes are to put communities at the heart of delivery, to tackle deprivation and level up communities. Grants from £5,000 to £200,000. Total amount available open for applications is £7.6m.

Eligibility:

·        Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

·        Organisations including community groups, community interest companies, businesses and town or parish councils.

Deadline: 01 December 2024

www.cornwall.gov.uk/business-trading-and-licences/economic-development/community-levelling-up-programme/

Race in the UK workplace

Addressing intersectional communities—such as Black, Bangladeshi, and Pakistani women according to this report by the internationally respected McKinsey—could yield far-reaching benefits, as despite meaningful progress, achieving workplace equity has proved challenging.

www.mckinsey.com/bem/our-insights/race-in-the-uk-workplace-the-intersectional-experience?cid=eml-web

Tendering & Procurement Opportunities

Instead of searching for grants, how about getting on a preferred list of suppliers to the government, local government, the council or other orgsanisations. FindItIn….promotes local opportunities to local businesses transparently, working with global organisations to engage with the local supply chain.

https://www.finditinbirmingham.com/opportunities

Violence Against Women and Girls Grassroots Fund 2023 - 2025

The Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) are re-launching the £3m MOPAC Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Grassroots Fund for 2023 – 25.

Two-year grants between £30,000 to £100,000 will be provided, as well as capacity building, networking opportunities and monitoring support.

Deadline: 30th August 2023

https://londoncf.org.uk/grants/vawg-grassroots-fund

Species Survival Fund

Grants to create and restore habitats and reverse the decline of species. The Fund will support the creation and restoration of wildlife-rich habitats in England. £250,000 to £3 million, with a total grant size of £25m. Projects must deliver against the fund theme of habitat creation and restoration, including ecosystem restoration, to support species abundance at a landscape, catchment or local scale, either within or outside of protected sites.

Eligibility:

·        environmental not-for-profit organisations England

·        AONBs and National Park Authorities (via their accountable or registered body)

·        local authorities

Deadline: 26 October 2023

https://www.heritagefund.org.uk/funding/species-survival-fund

Venture capital needs to venture further

Treasury Committee criticises the venture capital industry’s unacceptable failure to invest in firms outside London and the South East or in businesses led by women and ethnic minorities as it calls for rapid change from Government and the sector.

20% of the startups are in London, however 50% of the funding goes there.

https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/158/treasury-committee/news/196644/venture-capital-needs-to-venture-further-says-treasury-committee/

Health FUSE programme

Supported by the West Midlands Academic Health Science Network (WMAHSN) The FUSE offers a 3-month programme of masterclasses and business mentoring plus access to early-stage funding to kick-start and ignite socially-driven businesses in health and social care in the West Midlands.

There is also the opportunity for participants to access for a small grant to develop their idea and pilot / test trade.

Eligibility:

·        Based in West Midlands

·        Health and social care social business or emerging (pre trading) social idea or business.

·        Where do sessions take place?

·        Participants must be available to attend the in-person sessions.

Location: Bi-weekly Tuesday evenings at the Women's Enterprise & Community Hub, Sparkbrook, Birmingham.

Deadline: 15 September 2023

https://www.i-se.co.uk/our-services/starting-a-social-enterprise-2/

Million Hours Fund

Funding to support youth services to engage young people at risk of antisocial behaviour by offering a variety of positive activities. Up to £3 million available through The National Lottery Community Fund’s (TNLCF). Awards for All England programme this summer thanks to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and National Lottery players.

Eligibility:

·        Benefit primarily aged 11-18 during the 2023 school summer holidays.

·        Up to 25 for young people with special educational needs/ disabilities.

Deadline: 14 August 2023

www.gov.uk/guidance/applying-to-the-million-hours-fund

New Generation Thinkers 2024

Develop research to give early career researchers the opportunity to develop programmes for the BBC. Workshop ideas with BBC producers, get media and public engagement training, and a platform for informing and influencing public opinion, policy and practice.

Deadline: 03 October 2023

www.ukri.org/opportunity/develop-research-for-bbc-platforms-new-generation-thinkers-2024/

Birmingham Tech Week

16 - 20th October 2023 - get it in the diary!

TechWM (formerly Birmingham Tech) is now accepting enquiries for the UK's largest regional tech week! If you want to host an event, sponsor, or partner, or like to know more about getting involved,

Email events@birmingham.tech for more info.

Talent Development Awards Scheme 2023-24 Competition    

British Academy funded by the UK government's Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT, formerly BEIS) continues support for the Talent Development Awards scheme.            

Eligibility:

·        Lead Applicants ordinarily resident in UK with a current long-term appointment continuing as long as the period of the award at a UK-based institution (HEI or IRO).

·        Apply online.

Deadline: 13 September 2023

www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/funding/talent-development-awards

European Prize for Women Innovators 2023

For female entrepreneurs with an innovative idea that will bring positive change to society. Funded by European Innovation Council (EIC) and European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT).

Three prize categories:

·        Women Innovators prize: winner EUR 100k, runners-ups EUR 70k and EUR 50k;

·        Rising Innovators prize: under age 35. Winner EUR 50k, runners-ups EUR 30k and EUR 20k

·        EIT Women Leadership Award: winner EUR 5k, two runners-ups EUR 30k and EUR 20k.

Eligibility:

·        Women

·        Established in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe Associated Country

·        Company registered at least 2 years before the call year

Deadline: 27 Sept 2023

eit.europa.eu/our-activities/opportunities/european-prize-women-innovators-2023-call-applications-now-open

Seven steps for setting your business up for success

How ethnic minority business leaders can build confidence, find support and transform their businesses.

bethebusiness.turtl.co/story/seven-steps-for-setting-your-business-up-for-success/page/1

How to build a pitch deck investors love

Virgin StartUp a not-for-profit helping founders in the UK start and scale businesses.

Webinar to find out how to build a pitch deck investors love, and how Virgin StartUp can help you thrive in 2023. Virgin StartUp have funded over 4,500 startups with a Start Up Loan, and helped thousands of other scale-ups grow successfully. There'll be a chance for a Q&A

Dates for the next events, every 2 weeks.

·        Aug 18, 2023 01:00 PM

·        Sep 1, 2023 01:00 PM

·        Sep 15, 2023 01:00 PM

Cost: Free

Location: Online

virginstartup.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_X82h_Nx-S_a7TgCZoe8TXA#/registration

Be the Business and American Express

Launching a productivity partnership to empower small businesses across the UK. Activities include

Mentoring business leaders with 1-to-1 expertise and advice, helping them to drive tangible impact through in-depth support on productivity and resilience.

The Be the Business Mentoring programme matches senior executives from leading firms, including American Express, with SME leaders to help accelerate business growth and competitiveness. Over the course of 12 months, mentoring pairs build relationships, and mentors share their expertise and advice while further developing their own leadership capability.

Advisory boards offer business leaders the opportunity to experience trusted non-executive director style support to collectively tackle business-critical issues. Experienced business people will offer guidance on finance, marketing, operations, HR or other specialist areas over the course of 12 months.

A Workshop series will support business leaders to take practical steps to enhance the resilience of their businesses.

https://www.bethebusiness.com/newsroom/be-the-business-and-american-express-launch-productivity-partnership-to-empower-small-businesses-across-the-uk/

Innovate UK SMART Grants

UK registered organisations can apply for a share of up to £25 million for game changing and commercially viable R&D innovations that can significantly impact the UK economy. Funding is from Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation. Very competitive, but if you can write a Smart Grant any other grant is easy.

Deadline: 27 September 2023

apply-for-innovation-funding.service.gov.uk/competition/1539/overview/c1be09e2-f448-4559-8a56-2ab5c5c5d090

Help to Grow: Management Course

Boost the performance and resilience of your company with the Government backed

Course. 90% funded by the Government and offers peer learning sessions and help in developing a business growth plan. All sectors can apply, including social enterprises.

Recent satisfaction surveys indicate that 91% of those who have completed the course say that they would recommend it to other business leaders.

Upcoming courses in West Midlands include:

Coventry University Business School starting on 13th September 2023,

Aston University Business School starting on 21st September 2023,

Worcester University Business School starting on 27th September 2023

Keele University Business School starting on 28th September 2023.

smallbusinesscharter.org/help-to-grow-management

Grants for innovative agri-tech businesses

Small and medium-sized agri-tech businesses can apply for grants to develop innovative solutions that make farming more productive, sustainable and resilient. The £5 million Defra Farming Innovation Investor Partnership

Deadline: 30 August 2023.

https://defrafarming.blog.gov.uk/2023/07/24/funding-applications-now-open-for-high-growth-agri-tech-businesses/

£76 million support package for charities

Grants between £10,000 and £75,000 are available from the Government, to cover project and core costs, including rent, utilities, staff and volunteers.

Eligibility:

·        Charities and community organisations that are supporting vulnerable people during the cost of living crisis.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/charity-and-community-organisations-helping-vulnerable-people-set-to-benefit-from-76-million-government-support

ICURe Discover: Broadcast Media, Digital or AI Programme

SETsquared will be running an ICURe Discover 8 week pilot programme - to test market opportunities for research. Comes with a stipend of £2500 per entrepreneurial team.

Eligibility:

·        Sector specific to investable Arts, Design, Broadcast media, Digital media, Arts & Design based AI - generally any research that could create a sustainable investment ready business.

·        All UK HEIs, of any size,

·        Researchers at any stage of their career

·        PhD students close to submitting their thesis

Information session: 05 Sep 2023

Applications close: 15 Sep 2023

Programme start: October 2023

Cost: Free

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/icure-discover-broadcast-media-digital-or-ai-info-session-tickets-672406234147

Wray Forward Music Accelerator

3-month intensive programme helping 20 Black business founders in music. We are looking for a highly-skilled cohort of founders who work behind the scenes and are responsible for getting music to the masses. This programme will help scale up your business, increase your brand visibility and support you in pitching your business idea to investors. If you are in Media (magazine, radio, music tech), Publishing/Labels (music publishing, distribution, small independent labels), Creative agencies (booking agents, artist managers, creative studios etc), Live Events

Eligibility:

·        At least 1 founder self-identifies as Black or of Black heritage

·        Over 25 years old

UK registered

·        Have been in business for 2+ years

·        Ready to scale

Cost: Free

Deadline: 23 August 2023

https://www.foundervine.com/wray-forward-music-accelerator

Design Foundations Round 2: Responsive

Innovate UK will invest up to £4m in innovation projects that use people-centred and system-aware design methods. This competition is to help businesses use people-centred and system-aware design methods to lay the foundations for innovative ideas with the potential to deliver significant benefits. These can be ideas for new or significantly improved products, services, places or business models.

Deadline: 30 August 2023

iuk.ktn-uk.org/programme/design-foundations/

Discover New Grants and Free Support inc. WM Innovation Accelerator

Grants and fully funded support from a range of sources including local councils, the new West Midlands Innovation Accelerator, Innovate UK and others to help businesses to discover the range of grants, fully funded support and incentives available in the Health Tech or Clean Tech spaces. Hosted by our partner the Technology Supply Chain

Cost: Free

Date: Wednesday, August 30 · 6 - 8:30pm

Location: Millennium Point, Curzon Street, Birmingham, B4 7XG

Note: Subscribe to their newsletter, some great information on W Midlands grant funding & programmes.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/discover-new-grants-and-free-support-inc-wm-innovation-accelerator-tickets-682112054517

CyberASAP

Year 7: Expert support to commercialise academic cyber security innovation.

Now in its seventh year, CyberASAP provides academics with the expertise, knowledge and training needed to convert their research into technologies, products and services in this key sector of the global economy.

The programme creates a pipeline to move great cyber security ideas out of the university lab and into the commercial market.

iuk.ktn-uk.org/programme/cyberasap

Fund to drive export growth

The Institute of Export & International Trade has launched a £5 million Export Support Programme to help UK businesses. The programme will provide exporters with a bespoke package of training and consultancy to reflect their circumstances and needs. Over the duration of the programme the institute intends to help up to 1,250 businesses.

www.themanufacturer.com/articles/institute-of-export-international-trade-unveils-5m-fund-to-drive-sme-export-growth/

Amazon to provide revenue-based financing

Amazon has teamed up with fintech YouLend to create a revenue-based lending programme for UK sellers. The funding will be linked to the seller's sales, so they can 'repay as they earn'.

Businesses selling for at least three months on Amazon can apply for funding from £500 to £2 million through their existing Amazon UK business accounts.

www.altfi.com/article/amazon-teams-up-with-youlend-to-offer-sme-customers-revenue-based-financing

SMEs believe it's important to adapt

Research by PayPal has revealed that 77% of small and medium-sized businesses believe it is important to adapt to remain competitive during changing market conditions. Some of the most popular ways to remain competitive include selling through online marketplaces and via social media. However, 34% of smaller businesses do not have a website for their business and 28% don't have their own social media channels.

newsroom.uk.paypal-corp.com/BusinessofChange_2023

Interest rates could slow small business growth

The FSB believes that the Bank of England is risking economic slowdown across the small business community after increasing interest rates by 0.5%. The FSB warned that higher interest rates and escalating costs mean that consumers have less disposable income which could result in reduced sales for businesses.

www.fsb.org.uk/resources-page/interest-rates-are-a-straitjacket-on-business-investment-as-fsb-urges-government-to-raise-vat-threshold.html

Fund to transform local skills

Local communities across the country are set to benefit from a share of £165 million to transform skills training in their area and help get more people into work.

Further education providers can apply for funding via the Local Skills Improvement Fund, which can be used to renovate facilities and deliver courses in key subjects that meet the needs of local employers, such as green construction, carbon capture and cyber security.

www.gov.uk/government/news/165-million-fund-launched-to-transform-local-skills

Empowering SMEs in International Trade programme

Support for new and experienced exporters and importers, to help trade internationally more confidently, successfully, and compliantly. The programme enables businesses to overcome barriers in global trade, rapidly grow their brands overseas establish more cost-effective, resilient, and sustainable supply chains

Eligibility:

·        SMEs based in the East Midlands either importing or exporting.

Up to 30 hours of training, strategic and operational advice from international trade specialists.

www.globaltradedept.com/empowering-smes-in-international-trade/

Community Ownership Fund

£150 million fund over 4 years to support community groups to take ownership of assets which are at risk of being lost to the community. Funding from The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. Upto £250,000 or 20% of the total capital funding.

Eligibility:

·        Across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland

·        Incorporated voluntary and community organisation or a parish, town and community council

·        Able to buy the asset freehold, or the long-term leasehold of at least 15 years with reasonable break clauses

·        Same organisation receiving funding, must run the project

Deadline: 31 March 2025

mycommunity.org.uk/what-is-the-community-ownership-fund

Apply for Funding for Community Projects

Find out from your Local Authority about community-based funding and grants for projects like activities for young people, volunteer programmes and development of communal facilities. Total size of grant scheme varies per sector & use.

Eligibility:

·        Location England, Wales

·        Personal / Individual, Public Sector, Non-profit, Private Sector

Deadline: 31 December 2025

www.gov.uk/government/publications/community-ownership-fund-prospectus

Force for Change programme

The Trust will fund projects upto £15,000 which make a real difference to Armed Force communities locally. Can also include funding for pilot projects; or to try new ways of offering local support. It can also include projects that build on earlier work that you have done. Funding organisation The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust.

Eligibility:

·        Non-profit, Public Sector

Deadline: 13 December 2023

covenantfund.org.uk/programme/force-for-change/

Local Giving

Simple 20-minute application process for a £500 grant and an outcome within six weeks, the Magic Little Grants fund reduces the work required for grass-roots organisations to access the funding. Funded by the Peoples Postcode Lottery. 2,650 charitable organisations received grants in 2022. Funding can be used to launch new projects or, support existing ones.

Eligibility:

·        Organisations in first year of operation.

·        Have an annual income under £250,000.

·        Be located within England, Scotland, or Wales.

Deadline: 31 October 2023

localgiving.org/magic-little-grants/

Innovate UK and the Economic and Social Research Council

Investing £26.5 million in the Next Generation Professional and Financial Services programme.

Five activity strands around:

·        support for adoption in demand side firms

·        collaborative R&D support programme for lawtech, accountech, fintech and insurtech

·        data access in cross sectoral areas of professional and financial services

·        connecting, learning and building community through the AI for Services network

·        support to develop and expand into new domestic and international markets

www.ukri.org/news/new-programme-to-transform-uk-professional-and-financial-services/

Find training and employment schemes for your business

A range of government programmes, are available for employers who are considering hiring employees, offering work experience or upskilling existing staff, some of which offer financial incentives.

find-employer-schemes.education.gov.uk/

Sign-up to this Show Me The Money newsletter, or share with anyone needing support in these times of opportunity & change:

www.hibretone.org

Big Thank You to these supporters….

E&OE

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.

•     All supporters expressly disclaim all representations, warranties, assurance of any kind, expressed or implied.

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