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

Revised: May 2024

Hello wonderful people,

One of my innovation idols, Prof Monder Ram is a Deputy Lieutenant. Monder and his team at CREME are keen to support more businesses submitting for the King’s Award for Enterprise. They are holding a masterclass with the lieutenants talking you through the application process. A couple of previous winners will be on hand to provide tips. Although Monder is based in the West Midlands the process will be similar for other regions.

Businesses that are struggling with cashflow and paying business rates, may qualify for rates relief. Councils do not advertise it, but it’s there. The wisdom sharer Ben. got 15% off his rates bill. I’ve included details for Sandwell in the W Midlands, but other councils will have similar schemes.

National Highways have launched England’s first social enterprise dynamic purchasing system (SEDPS), which is designed for organisations who have primarily social objectives and whose surpluses are principally reinvested into their business or communities.

Two more students, Aman demonstrating an Industrial Intelligence feature, to improve business plan content & Niraj Aryal demonstrating a feature to support the 90% of entrepreneurs who fail into better paying careers. Aman & Niraj are both studying Computer Science at Birmingham City University. To secure interns of your own, connect with the university contacts further down:

Aman’s Industrial Intelligence: https://youtu.be/T6O7qYReqyw

Niraj's Career Guidance-Job Connect: https://youtu.be/dPmJ7n7-Ixw

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, many funds listed are for the W Midlands. 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.

·        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

Masterclass for the King's Award for Enterprise 2024

The West Midlands Lieutenancy in collaboration with the Centre for Research in Ethnic Minority Entrepreneurship (CREME), will hold a Masterclass on "How to be a winner" at John Cadbury House, Aston University. The King's Award for Enterprise is without a doubt the most prestigious award that any UK company can receive the boost to your business, particularly internationally and to company morale is immense.

The King’s Awards for Enterprise are for outstanding achievement by UK businesses in the categories of:

·        Innovation

·        International Trade

·        Sustainable Development

·        Promoting Opportunity through Social Mobility

At the masterclass the West Midlands Lieutenancy will deliver a presentation on the application process and previous winners will be on hand to explain their path to success and the many benefits that have derived from winning an award.

The masterclass is free to attend.

When: 10th May 15:00-17:00

https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx

Show Me The Money: Funding & Investment Strategies To Fuel Growth

This is not my event, but it does share our great title! The wonderful Tara Attfield-Tomes of East Village helped put this together, so you know it’s going to be informative. I’ll be on the panel. It’s the first of ‘the51percentclub’ expert events, to support female founders in their growth and scale-up journeys

Bootstrapping? Master your outgoings!

Debt financing? Loans & grants await!

Crowdfunding? Unleash your community power!

They'll be breaking down the money landscape for female founders, before opening the floor to questions!

When: Thursday 23 May,  10am-12pm

Where: iCentrum Birmingham

https://lu.ma/the51percentclub-show-me-the-money

Digital Health Intelligence Pitchfest 2025

From the organisers of the #1 digital health conference, Rewired.  Now in its 6th year, Digital Health Rewired Pitchfest is the entrepreneurial competition providing a platform for young and innovative ventures to scale in the NHS.

Applications submitted have come from the UK, Europe, and across the globe US, Canada and Australia. The finalists will have the chance to win an NHS test bed site, which will involve their innovation being rolled-out at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust through the CW Innovation programme – a collaboration between the trust and its partner charity CW+. They will also have the unrivalled opportunity to connect with and pitch their start-up to NHS leaders, investors and industry peers at Rewired. taking place at the NEC in Birmingham on 18-19 March 2025.

New to the competition this year, heats hosted live at AI + Data 2024, a popular two-day conference and exhibition dedicated to the UK's multi-faceted data-driven digital health revolution.

Deadline: TBC

Live Pitchfest: 18/19 March 2025

https://digitalhealthrewired.com/pitchfest/

Elevate Fund

Funding Opportunity for East Londoners £500 - £15k. Masterclass on how to access the fund. Are you interested in applying for funding for yourself or your project/organisation? Do you live, work or study in Hackney, Newham, Tower Hamlets or Waltham Forest?

Then look no further! The Elevate Fund is here to uplift and empower young people in East London in collaboration with Spirit of 2012 and Foundation for Future London.

When: Tuesday 14th May, 5pm - 7.30pm

Where: Good Growth Hub, Hackney Bridge, on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park (QEOP).

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/elevate-fund-applying-for-funding-masterclass-tickets-899846774927?

Reel Impact Fund

Offers grants for individuals and companies, with and an independent panel assessing the applications.

Up to £10,000 for mid-senior level film, TV, and cinema professionals from the Black and Global Majority. Up to £25,000 for Black and Global Majority-led production companies and industry organisations.

Applications opening: May 13 to June 30 2024

https://filmtvcharity.org.uk/get-support/reel-impact/

West Midlands Voluntary Sector

BSSEC CIC continues to work closely with West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) to deliver key elements of the social economy growth agenda. 

Delivering a series of Social Economy forum sessions alongside social economy strategic Roundtables. These sessions have both supported a capacity-building element of the VCFSE sector, and also shared frontline and infrastructure organisation insights through session summary papers fed back to the WMCA Social Economy Advisory Group. 

NEXT FORUM | Tuesday 14th May 2024 kindly hosted by Birgit Kehrer CHANGEKITCHEN CIC & Richard Beard BSC MCIBSE CEng JERICHO

REGISTER FOR EVENT INVITES & UPDATES

https://bit.ly/4aO4mTa

https://bssec.org.uk/resources/wmca-social-economy-sessions/

Future of Funding for small business support - concerned about end of UKSPF

Business leaders have warned that the UK faces a business support 'cliff edge' when the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) ends. The UKSPF is scheduled to close in March 2025, and there are currently no plans for it to be extended.

Read more.

https://lnkd.in/ejbQ8mw9

Clean Futures Accelerator

Your chance to get up to £50K to develop your green transport solution. Clean Futures is supporting the West Midlands’ transport sector as it transitions away from fossil fuels towards clean tech and driving economic growth in the region by accelerating the route to market for SMEs in the sector.

The programme will select 20 SMEs to join a 6-month, challenge-led accelerator where they will receive up to £50,000 to trial their solution.

The challenges for this accelerator are:

-Clean and efficient vehicle manufacturing and assembly

-Design or production of cost-effective solutions for a clean transportation infrastructure

-Future fuels: produce, transport, or store alternative fuels such as hydrogen or biofuels

-Open challenge

https://lnkd.in/gxQ8er9N

Innovate UK Women in Innovation Awards 2024

Will award 50 women up to £75k grant funding plus a comprehensive package of mentorship, networking, training and 1-to-1 business coaching.

Online briefing event will cover eligibility criteria, FAQs and application scope. You'll hear from previous winners about the awards and how to apply.

When: 14 May 2024

Where: Online

https://iuk.ktn-uk.org/programme/women-in-innovation/

The Scaleup Programme: for high potential scaleup businesses

The Innovate UK Scaleup Programme helps the highest potential businesses realise their ambitions.

https://www.innovateukedge.ukri.org/Scale-with-us

Women TechEU - €75k and targeted training programme

A two-year EU-funded project funding and supporting women leading deep tech startup companies from Europe. Across the two years, the consortium will launch a total of four calls for applications. Applicant startups will undergo a rigorous evaluation and a total of 160 winner startups will receive €75k in non-dilutive grants as well as a personalised business development programme including mentoring, coaching and training.

Call 1 Deadline: 20 May 2024

https://womentecheurope.eu/upcoming-calls-and-programme-plan/?

Innovate UK’s Global Business Innovation Programme (GBIP)

Helps innovative SMEs to collaborate and explore global markets, accelerating business growth.

Each GBIP, focused on a specific market and technology or sector area, involves a cohort of up to 15 ambitious innovative UK businesses looking to grow and scale globally. The programme aims to help businesses explore future opportunities and to better understand what is needed to be successful on the global stage.

https://www.innovateukedge.ukri.org/gbip?

Business Rates Relief

Businesses that are newer or any which are struggling with cashflow, not otherwise able to use small business rates relief etc. Thanks for sharing Ben! 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 with.

·        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

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

This is a great event organised by the TSC, who also host tables at Mosely Rugby Club. Reach out to Richard Fallon, or Paul Cadman. Between them both they may have some spare tickets for next season. TSC membership is free!

Nominations close 30th June 2024

https://innovation-awards.co.uk/

EMCC UK BURSARY FUND

The European Mentoring and Coaching Council are wanting to switch the dial on the coaching profession being around 85% white. EMCC UK Member ONLY Event – A Forum for EMCC UK Members to discuss a New Bursary Award. Thanks for sharing Sally Dhillon.

If you are a member of the EMCC and you are passionate about supporting a more inclusive membership for EMCC UK? Do you believe in the power of bursaries to change lives and unlock potential? Join them as they shape the future of a new Bursary Fund through this members-only forum!

When: 24th May 2024 09:30 - 11:00

Where: Virtual - Webinar

https://emccuk.org/Public/Events/Event.aspx?EventKey=440ded9c-b2e6-43cd-af8d-14c45b1cecda&iSearchResult=true&WebsiteKey=1d13aaf8-bbb6-4d79-8911-edffbb65069a

Female Business Leader - Access 2 Finance

How and where to access finance, including, loans, grants, investors etc. With a focus on Birmingham & Solihull.

When: 08 May 2024

Where: X+Why, Brindley Place, Birmingham

RSVP Charlotte.Bowden@birmingham.gov.uk

Goggle 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.

htts://www.enterprisenation.com/google-digital-skills-training/

Unlock Your Business's Green Potential

Aston University proudly presents an exclusive event tailored for small and medium-sized enterprises. Thanks for sharing Keith. This event is perfect for business leaders and decision-makers from SMEs who:

·        Operate from a physical premises, not work from home.

·        Are responsible for their energy bills and have their own metered supply.

Here's what the programme offers to eligible businesses:

·        Guidance and Support: This includes personal advice, online events, workshops, and groups to help businesses learn how to reduce their carbon emissions to zero by 2050. It also covers help with understanding new rules, dealing with investment issues, and making decisions about bigger, long-term investments with less worry.

·        Energy Check-Ups: Businesses can get free tools and visits to check how much carbon they're emitting and how much energy they're using. This helps them find ways to save energy, set goals for reducing emissions, and include green strategies in their business plans.

·        Learning New Tech Skills: There's also support for more technical projects, like learning how to use carbon accounting and sustainability software, to help businesses become even greener.

When: Thu, 23 May 2024 17:30 - 21:00 BST

Where: Legacy Centre of Excellence, Aston, Birmingham.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/unlock-your-businesss-green-potential-decarbonisation-tickets-883241869207

National Highways

Launched England’s first social enterprise dynamic purchasing system (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, we 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/

BetaDen Incubate

A dynamic 8-week incubator delivered in partnership with Barclays Eagle Labs and The Kiln.

Incubate is designed to help innovative technology startups thrive, supported by experienced mentors, workshops, resources, and opportunities to propel their businesses forward.

The programme will deliver support for up to 60 start-up technology and digital businesses over four intakes, with the first intake starting the programme in July 2024.

https://www.beta-den.com/incubate/

Innovate UK and British Business Bank sign MoU

Further strengthening collaboration by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU).

As partners dedicated to fostering innovation and growth of UK businesses across the country, this new collaboration will see the two organisations working even more closely.

Together they will co-create new opportunities to promote investment and to support UK businesses through better tailored offerings. To:

·        build pathways for businesses that seek British Business Bank or Innovate UK funding to provide more co-ordinated support throughout their growth journey

·        promote growth across the nations and regions of the UK through co-ordinated place-based activities

·        combine the expertise of Innovate UK and the British Business Bank to develop more tailored offerings for smaller businesses

https://www.ukri.org/news/innovate-uk-and-british-business-bank-sign-mou/

Bristol Youth and Play Support Programme

A partnership between Bristol City Council and Quartet Community Foundation to support a variety of youth and play activities across Bristol. This programme is for organisations in Bristol that work with local children and young people aged 8 to 19 years (up to 25 for young people with learning difficulties). £5,000 & up to £10,000 for partnerships.

Deadline: 28th May 2024

https://quartetcf.org.uk/grants/bristol-youth-and-play-support-programme/

Karren Brady’s Women in Business & Tech Expo

The industry-leading hiring event for those who aspire to thrive in their professional careers and grow their businesses. The award-winning female-led event provides inspiration, guidance, recruitment opportunities, and services to supercharge your professional journey at all stages within the technology and business sectors.

The amazing Tara Attfield-Tomes will be speaking here as well.

Cost: Free

When: 4-5 June 2024

Where: Manchester Central

https://wibtexpomanchester.co.uk/

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. 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.

Pre-application training session: 15 May 2024, registration is required.

Deadline 24 June 2024.

https://darwinplus.org.uk/apply/

Darwin Plus Main Projects Open for Applications

Darwin Plus is one of Defra’s Biodiversity Challenge Funds. The aim of Darwin Plus is to help deliver long-term strategic outcomes for the natural environment in the UK Overseas Territories (OTs).

Round 13 is offering grants of between £50,000 and £1 million for projects lasting between six months and three years.

Darwin Plus supports environmental projects in the UKOTs, split across four broad themes:

·        Biodiversity: improving and conserving biodiversity, and slowing or reversing biodiversity loss and degradation;

·        Climate change: responding to, mitigating and adapting to climate change and its effects on the natural environment and local communities;

·        Environmental quality: improving the condition and protection of the natural environment;

·        Capability and capacity building: enhancing the capacity within UKOTs to support the environment in the short- and long-term.

Preference will be given to projects implementing existing identified environmental solutions on the ground (i.e. action orientated). Research and scoping work in projects must be clearly justified, explaining how any new research will be applied to drive meaningful environmental outcomes on the ground.

Applications will be considered from OT Governments, NGOs, research institutions, the private sector and other stakeholders. Collaborative approached are encouraged.

Deadline: 03 June 2024.

https://darwinplus.org.uk/

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.

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/

Funding to Reduce Isolation and Loneliness Among Older People Across Great Britain

The Barchester Healthcare 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/

Blaenau Gwent – Kick Start Plus

Kick Start Plus is a joint initiative funded by UK Steel Enterprise and administered by Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council. The scheme has been developed to complement the existing business start up grant initiative. The grant is aimed at supporting new businesses from 6 months up to 3 years old, to help them develop and expand.

https://www.blaenaugwentbusinesshub.co.uk/BusinessSupport/Financial-Support/Kick-StartPlus-Grant

Bridgend – UK Shared Prosperity Fund: Business Development Grant

What is it: The Business Development Grant will support Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Bridgend County Borough to diversify, decarbonise and grow which will contribute to creating a vibrant and strong local economy.

Provides 50 per cent of eligible capital projects costs. From £5,000 to £25,000. So, maximum project cost is £50,000.

Eligibility:

·        Businesses in Bridgend.

https://www.bridgend.gov.uk/business/funding-and-grants/business-support-grants/

Financial support for businesses (Swansea)

Access to finance can be an important aspect to starting and growing your business. They work closely alongside a range of partners to provide access to financial support.

The availability of funding can change on a regular basis so continue to monitor this page for regular updates.

Grants and loans from Swansea Council

Regional and local financial support schemes

National support programmes

https://www.swansea.gov.uk/businessfunding

Free Business Management courses

The Department for Business has launched a free introductory version of the Help to Grow: Management course designed specifically for businesses with less than five employees. The Help to Grow: Management Essentials course is made up of three modules and includes bite-sized videos and online resources on different business topics.

Barclays, Birmingham City University, Aston University and a number of other places are offering this course now.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-launches-new-free-business-management-course-for-small-businesses

Funding for restaurants in London and Manchester

Small independent restaurants in London and Manchester can apply for a share of £220,000 to help grow their business. The funding is provided as part of a programme supported by American Express.

Deadline: 30 May 2024.

https://londonlovesbusiness.com/restaurant-grant-programme-returns-for-its-third-year/

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

Help to Grow- Taster Workshop

The Help to Grow: Management course will help you boost the performance and resilience of your business. Try out our unique Taster Workshop.

To enable you to find out more, the accredited Business School at Birmingham City University is pleased to offer a short Taster Event where you will explore core elements of the Leadership and Marketing content.

When: 14 May 2024

Where: Curzon Building, Birmingham

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/help-to-grow-management-course-leadership-and-marketing-taster-workshop-tickets-890869152617

Climate Action Fund – Our Shared Future Opens for UK Applications

The National Lottery Community Fund (NLCF) has launched its new £20 million Climate Action Fund for formal partnership working across sectors, led by community and voluntary organisations or public sector organisations for projects that reach more people. Funding is intended to reach people who are new to climate action by funding other types of organisations and by using everyday activities and interests as a starting point for climate action.

Particular interest in projects that involve people, places and communities experiencing poverty, discrimination and disadvantage.

A total of up to 25 projects is expected to be funded. The minimum grant is £500,000. It is expected that most grants will be between £1 million and £1.5 million over three to five years. Some exceptional projects of up to £3 million, for up to seven years, may be funded.

NLCF is holding the following information sessions:

16 May 2024 (Welsh and English).

21 May 2024

Deadline: 31 December 2024

https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/programmes/climate-action-fund-our-shared-future

Power to Change: Celebrating launch of their new report

Launching their new report, 'Financing the future economy'. Sharing insights and recommendations on how funders, social investors and government can unlock affordable, flexible and accessible finance to help community business to thrive. You'll also hear reactions from an expert panel of guests and have a chance to ask your questions.

When: 16th May from 12.00pm - 1.00 pm

Where: Online

https://www.powertochange.org.uk/event/financing-the-future-economy-how-community-businesses-can-access-the-right-finance-to-achieve-their-ambitions/

Sustainable Chemical Technologies: Investment Workout

Kickstart your next raise with help from SETsquared and iCAST. Are you innovating across technology areas including circular plastics, sustainable manufacturing, biotechnology, or sustainable engineering materials? Are you looking to raise investment within the next two years but don't know where to start?

This programme will help you build a successful investment strategy tailored to investors managing a sustainability sector-aligned portfolio.

When: 13 & 14 May 2024

Where: iCAST Creative Hub, Swindon

https://www.setsquared.co.uk/programme/investment-workout-sustainable-chemical-technologies

NHS Cancer Programme Innovation Open Call

NHS England has announced the third round of the NHS Cancer Programme Innovation Open Call.

Applications are invited for innovations or new approaches that will detect cancers earlier and increase the proportion diagnosed at stage one or two.

Deadline: 29 May 2024

https://iuk.ktn-uk.org/opportunities/nhs-cancer-programme-innovation-open-call-3/

NIHR i4i PDA Call 28

The i4i Product Development Awards (PDA) supports collaborative research and development of medical devices, in vitro diagnostic devices and high-impact patient-focused digital health technologies for use in the NHS or social care systems. PDA are researcher-led and aim to de-risk innovations, supporting early product development and real-world evaluation, to make them more attractive for follow-on funding and further commercial investment.

Deadline: 29 May 2024

https://www.nihr.ac.uk/funding/invention-for-innovation-product-development-awards-call-28/35829

Fall in university and business collaboration

A survey has revealed that between August 2022 and July 2023 the number of university and business interactions fell by 5% year-on-year. The fall in interactions has been attributed to financial pressures and the loss of ERDF funding.

The good news is the number of spin-out companies that survived at least three years increased by 9%.

https://www.ncub.co.uk/insight/uk-economy-at-risk-without-strengthened-university-business-collaboration-says-ncub/

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

Founders Collective

The 7 signs of an entrepreneur include a strong work ethic, passion and drive, risk-taking, resilience, innovation, adaptability, and networking and building relationships. By identifying these traits in yourself and working to develop them, you can set yourself up for success as an entrepreneur.

If you know an entrepreneur that has a business based (registered or operates) in Birmingham, Solihull, or the Black Country, reach out to the amazing twosome of Vernon Hogg and Davies Okeowo for more information to connect. I always attend their programmes, so informative!

Email dokeowo@oxin.co.uk

Health & Care Accelerator Programme

This Accelerator programme is targeted to support community-based social enterprises and charities who work in health, wellbeing, and social care and feel ready to grow and scale.

Our programme is delivered as part of the Bristol Local Access Programme, an innovative programme created to develop stronger and more sustainable social enterprises in Bristol

What does the programme offer?

·        An opportunity to apply for grant support of between £5,000 and £10,000.

·        Access to 1-2-1 expert advice and coaching, mentoring, and networking opportunities.

·        The ability to connect to a unique Peer to Peer learning experience.

·        The ability to engage directly with service commissioners and procurers to expand your network.

·        A chance to pitch to social investors and potentially secure the social investment you need to grow.

Eligibility:

·        Racially Minoritised registered charities/social enterprises who support and deliver services in the Health, Wellbeing, and Social Care sectors.

·        Have been trading for a minimum of 12 months.

Deadline: 20th May 2024

https://www.blacksouthwestnetwork.org/healthandcareincubator

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. This funding is from the Department for Transport (DfT).

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.

Programme: Innovate UK

Award: Share of up to £8 million

Deadline: 26 June 202

https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/smart-shipping-acceleration-fund/

DCMS Create Growth Programme competition three

UK registered micro, small and medium enterprises 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/

Sport England Launches Movement Fund

£160 million, four-year Movement Fund offers grants of between £300 and £15,000, crowdfunding pledges, and resources to improve physical activity opportunities for the people and communities who need it the most across England.

The new fund replaces Sport England’s existing Small Grants Programme, which is now closed to applications, and Active Together fund, which will close soon.

Eligibility:

·        Local not-for-profit groups and organisations whose projects promote physical activity, including active travel, walking, cycling, dance, fitness and sporting activities.

·        Particular interest in projects providing opportunities for groups facing barriers to activity.

·        There are no deadlines for applications.

https://www.sportengland.org/funding-and-campaigns/our-funding/funding-guidance

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

Bubble Immerse

Is Bubble's fully funded, pre-accelerator virtual residency that empowers underrepresented founders and entrepreneurs to become their own CTOs. Now accepting applications for its social impact cohort.

This spring, we're seeking leaders of early-stage social impact ventures who are interested in building a fully-functional app or tool in just eight to 10 weeks — with support from the Bubble team and mentor community.

hibretOne built our prototype using Bubble.

Deadline: 24 May, 2024

https://bubble.io/immerse

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

Increase in debanking complaints

The Treasury Committee has revealed that the number of businesses debanking complaints received by the Financial Ombudsman Service has increased by 81% year-on-year. The data was published as part of the ongoing inquiry into accessibility of finance for small and medium-sized businesses. The committee commented that banks should be supporting small businesses, not pulling the rug out from beneath them with little warning.

https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/158/treasury-committee/news/200988/debanking-complaints-surge-in-new-figures-published-by-treasury-committee/

UKRI equalities monitoring

UKRI publishes annual diversity data on the personal characteristics of applicants and awardees to aid transparency in our funding and enable high-level monitoring of trends.

https://www.ukri.org/publications/ukri-equalities-monitoring/

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

Customer Growth Business Workshop Series

Foundervine programme ready to offer their guidance and expertise to assist you in scaling your customer base and broadening your market reach. Their wealth of knowledge and experience will ensure you gain valuable insights and strategies to achieve your growth objectives effectively.

This accelerator is part of the Amplify Venture Programme delivered by Foundervine, Capital Enterprise and OneTech, a two-year journey for ambitious founders looking to grow and scale their businesses.

Deadline:14 May 2024

https://www.foundervine.com/amplify-venture

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/

Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub

Accelerate your startup growth with AI. Free access to leading AI models through Azure, including OpenAI GPT-4, up to $150,000 in Azure credits, one-on-one guidance from Microsoft experts, and so much more. Open to anyone with an idea—no funding required. Thanks for sharing Mitesh & Davies.

https://foundershub.startups.microsoft.com/signup

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

Business-led schemes set to boost growth all over the UK

Innovate UK Launchpad programme gathers pace with £16 million funding being offered for 101 new projects.

·        Net zero industry Launchpad

Located in south-west Wales, this Launchpad is dedicated to the pursuit of sustainable solutions in net zero industrial emissions.

·        Digital technologies Launchpad

Positioned in north-east England, this Launchpad will be at the forefront of digital technologies applied to fast-growing and emerging markets.

·        Health technologies Launchpad

Based in West Yorkshire, this Launchpad is dedicated to pioneering breakthroughs in technologies that will improve healthcare outcomes.

·        Agri-tech and food technology Launchpad

Located in eastern England, this Launchpad will revolutionise agri-tech and food technology, driving innovation in food production and sustainability.

·        Marine and maritime Launchpad

Located in the Great South West, this Launchpad will support initiatives in marine and maritime industries, fostering growth and sustainability in this sector.

·        Bio-based manufacturing Launchpad

Positioned in Scotland, this Launchpad will drive innovations in bio-based manufacturing, promoting sustainable production methods.

·        Immersive and creative industries Launchpad

Located in Coventry and Warwickshire in the West Midlands, this Launchpad has offered funding to 13 projects, with businesses developing technologies for the creative industries and immersive applications in industry.

·        Life and health sciences Launchpad

Situated in Northern Ireland, this Launchpad is dedicated to the advancement of healthcare solutions and medical breakthroughs.

https://www.ukri.org/news/business-led-schemes-set-to-boost-growth-all-over-the-uk

Psychological Therapies

Delivered to children and young people who are at risk of becoming involved in crime and violence (known as secondary prevention) or those already involved in the youth justice system (known as tertiary prevention).

Aiming to identify 2-3 projects, Primarily aged 11 – 18 to fund and evaluate which are ready to be evaluated via a robust impact evaluation. Planning to spend up to £3.5 million depending on how well applications meet our criteria.

Projects must be delivered in either England and/or Wales.

Deadline: 24th May 2024

https://youthendowmentfund.org.uk/grants/psychological-therapies/

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

Making London More Liveable

Suicide prevention - Wanting to fund continuation or expansion of existing work which reduces isolation and enables people living and working in Greater London to feel closer to their community.

Funding size: The maximum you can apply for is £200,000. Organisations cannot apply for more than 50% of their turnover/​income (as shown in their most recent signed accounts) in any one year.

Deadline: 31 May 2024

https://www.citybridgefoundation.org.uk/making-london-more-liveable

Women in Innovation Awards

Innovate UK’s Women in Innovation programme was launched in 2016 to address underrepresentation of women in business innovation and to encourage more of them to apply to Innovate UK’s funding opportunities.

Applications open 13 May 2024

https://iuk.ktn-uk.org/programme/women-in-innovation/

Wellbeing of Women Launches Women’s Health Community Fund

Working in partnership with Holland & Barrett, the charity Wellbeing of Women is offering grants of up to £5,000 to small, grassroots organisations and community groups to deliver health information and support to women, girls and people from underrepresented groups in the UK.

The funding is for projects that address the following key points:

Projects that aim to improve information, education and support for menstrual health, related gynaecological conditions e.g. PCOS, endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, PMDD, and menopause.

Support people and groups that are often underrepresented in mainstream healthcare, information and services, for example people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds (BAME/global majority), LGBTQI+, people living with disabilities, deaf people, blind and partially sighted people, people experiencing homelessness, addiction, people living in areas of economic deprivation.

Grants of up to £5,000 are available to spend across 12 months. Funds will be distributed in two tranches, 50% at the beginning of the project and 50% upon receipt of a six month report.

Deadline 19 May 2024.

https://www.wellbeingofwomen.org.uk/get-involved/womens-health-community-fund/

Triangle Trust to Open for UK Applications with New Focus for 2024

Funding in 2024 solely on not-for-profit organisations working with vulnerable young women and girls who have been in the criminal justice system or who are at a high risk of entering it.

The Trust holds two grants rounds per year with grants of up to £80,000 over two years (up £40,000 can be requested per year):

·        The Spring round is for proposals wanting to work with young people who already have a criminal conviction.

·        The Autumn round is for proposals focused on targeted work with high-risk young people on the edge of the criminal justice system.

Eligibility:

·        Registered charities, not-for-profit social enterprises and community interest companies working within the UK and have a UK office can apply.

·        Have previous experience of working with vulnerable young women or girls either on the edge of the criminal justice system or who already have criminal convictions.

·        Be requesting funding for a project working exclusively with young women and girls.

·        Work solely with women and girls.

·        Have a proven track record of running projects working with young women and girls that is both gender and trauma informed.

·        Be proposing a project with targets that are specifically linked to either reducing the number of young women or girls who reoffend or reduce the number of young women and girls who receive a first conviction.

·        Have an average annual income over the past three years of less than £1.5 million.

·        Be a registered charity or an organisation set up with a clear social purpose and appropriate governing documents stating this.

The Trust particularly welcomes applications from organisations working in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

Deadline 23 May 2024.

https://www.triangletrust.org.uk/

Contractors out of work due to IR35 reform

A survey has revealed that 21% of skilled contractors are not working, with half of them attributing this to the impact of IR35 tax reforms introduced in 2021. In addition, 55% of contractors said they had rejected an offer of work in the past 12 months due to it being deemed 'inside IR35' by the client.

https://www.ipse.co.uk/ipse-news/news-listing/contractors-out-of-work-tax-changes.html

Tool to help sole traders comply with tax change

HMRC has launched a tool for sole traders who will be affected by changes introduced under basis period reform. Under the changes all businesses will need to report their profits up to the end of the tax year, even if their accounting year ends on a different date. The tool will help sole traders complete their 2023/24 self-assessment tax return correctly.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/work-out-your-transition-profit#get-help-to-work-out-your-transition-profit

Wray Forward Pitch Night!

Inviting passionate individuals and visionary entrepreneurs like you to apply for a chance to pitch your ground-breaking idea.

When: 16 May 2024 | 18:00 to 21:30

Where: Campari 14-16 Great Portland St, London

Registration closed 02 May 2024, but give them a cheeky call & they may still let you pitch

https://foundervine.typeform.com/WFPitchNight1?

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.

After this deadline, Youth Music will pause the Trailblazer Fund to make some small but significant improvements, focusing on greater accessibility and more youth voice.

https://youthmusic.org.uk/trailblazer-fund

Barclays Black Founder

A dedicated 12-week programme designed to champion Black founder-led businesses through a series of masterclasses and one-to-one mentoring to help them accelerate and grow. Run by Barclays Eagle Labs & Foundervine.

Bringing expertise from sales, marketing, technology, business and investment, the programme will provide you with the tools you need to take your business to the next level.

Deadline: 15 May 2024

https://www.foundervine.com/barclays-accelerator

NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator

Supports and empowers UK entrepreneurs to scale their businesses to the next level. My favourite Accelerator in the whole wide world! I am biased though because I’m a mentor at the Birmingham Hub.

Free Accelerator programme specialising in wrap around support provides:

·        one-to-one coaching with our experienced acceleration managers

·        a programme of thought leadership and events

·        access to a network of like-minded peers, supported by our ecosystem managers

·        focused support with access to experts from across your specialism

·        use of our modern co-working spaces in one of our nationwide hubs.

Applications open: 27th May 2024.

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

Aston University PhD Studentship

Around the themes of business, law and social sciences. The topics include ‘Leveraging Digitalisation for the Internationalisation and Growth of Ethnic Minority Businesses in the West Midlands’, ‘Futures of Digital/House work’ and ‘Reading Covid Fiction: Style and Response’ among others.

All the projects will cover maintenance costs. This funds living costs for the award holders and are paid in 12 monthly instalments over the entire three year award.

18 fully funded three-year projects.

Deadline: 03 June 2024, for October 2024 entry

https://www.aston.ac.uk/graduate-school/how-to-apply/studentships

https://www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/resource/applications-open-for-funded-university-studentships.html

TAP for Bristol

An initiative by Bristol City Centre BID in partnership with Caring in Bristol and Redcliffe & Temple BID to raise money to help solve homelessness in Bristol. Donation points are located in the windows of businesses and on contactless devices in offices, cafés and bars around the city centre, allowing people to make a simple and secure donation of £3 per tap, using their contactless credit or debit card. All money raised is divided equally between Caring in Bristol’s homelessness prevention work and grants to other organisations who provide emergency funding for those experiencing homelessness.

Grants of £5,000 or £10,000 for most non profits based and working in Bristol, who run projects which provide emergency funding for those experiencing homelessness.

https://quartetcf.org.uk/grants/tap-for-bristol-grants-2/

Innovation Funding and Support for Black Country Manufacturers breakfast

Innovation Funding and Support for Black Country Manufacturers 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.

When: 11th June 2024

Where: National Brownfield Institute, Wolverhampton

https://allevents.in/wolverhampton/innovation-funding-and-support-for-black-country-manufacturers/80005073723820#google_vignette

Foundervine Immerse Early Stage Accelerator

Spans 8 weeks, guiding founders from MVP stage to business growth. We provide companies with top mentors, exceptional resources, a network of investors, and access to experts and alumni founders. Integrating in-person events with a mix of virtual sessions throughout ensures accessibility and engagement for all participants in our hybrid format.

Programme culminates in a Demo Day, offering a platform for pitching to investors and accessing a £15k grant funding pot

Deadline: 21 May 2024

https://www.foundervine.com/immerse-early-stage-accelerator

Wessex Water Environment Fund

Dorset Community Foundation is pleased to deliver this funding programme in partnership with Wessex Water, supporting charitable and community activities that improve local biodiversity or have a positive impact on the local environment for local people.

Eligibility:

·        Applicants must be based and working in Dorset or Ringwood.

·        an annual income of less than £500,000.

https://www.dorsetcommunityfoundation.org/funds/wessex-water-environment-fund/

Barclays Eagle Labs

Programmes & online Entrepreneur Academy. In January they launched the Eagle Labs Academy, an online learning portal to help you gain the skills to start and scale a tech business.

You can access self-paced, on demand and interactive content – at any time. Courses and content are designed in a modular basis which are easy to dip into, with content in both video and written form.

Business growth programmes

Six programmes open for applications and many more coming soon that you can register your interest for. Currently open for applications:

Sustainability Bridge

To help support a transition to low carbon transport, Barclays Eagle Labs and Codebase are launching a new Bridge programme. The Sustainability Bridge will focus on transport and micromobility, such as bikes, e-bikes and electric scooters.

Cyber Bridge

Cyber Bridge is designed to help address the rise of ransomware attacks. It supports startups and established businesses to understand the different approaches to collaboration and disruptive innovation in cyber security.

EnergyTech Bridge

Opportunity North East (ONE) working in collaboration with Codebase and Barclays Eagle Labs are launching a new programme focused on the transition to green energy.

AI Bridge

This programme is designed to help both startups and established businesses understand the different approaches to collaboration, and disruptive innovation in generative AI so they can harness the potential for greater productivity.

Global Connect

Global Connect is designed to give founders the opportunity to learn from Silicon Valley veterans and teach them the fundamentals of raising early-stage institutional funding in the US.

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/

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 that you are an established business, including sole traders and partnerships

based in Cumbria, South or West Scotland or carry out significant 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

AXA Startup Angel competition 2024

Six chances to win, including two top prizes of £25,000, plus valuable mentoring and business insurance for a year, thanks to AXA. Four runners-up will also win a media and mentoring prize valued at more than £18,000 to boost their new ventures.

https://www.axa.co.uk/startup-angel/

Sustainable Screen Training with BAFTA Albert!

Attention all creators of live action fiction and documentary content! Are you eager to make a positive impact on the environment through your filmmaking journey? Join for a transformative training session on Sustainable Screen production!

When: 21 May 2024

Cost: Free

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAqdO6qqTkjHdPkSmnnPKNdECtPd5MdMP6G#/registration

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.

Next deadline:01 June 2024

https://henry-moore.org/what-we-do/grants-fellowships/

Lloyds Bank Foundation's Racial Equity Programme

This year, the Racial Equity Programme will be providing 42 unrestricted grants of £75,000 over three years (£25,000 per year) with tailored development support to registered charities and community interest companies which are led by and working with people who are experiencing economic inequity because of the race or ethnicity.

The 2024 programme is open to small, local and specialist registered charities, charitable incorporated organisations (CIOs) and community interest companies (CICs) registered in England and Wales.

Eligibility:

·        Based and working in England (excluding London) and Wales.

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

·        Track record of directly delivering services for at least one year to people (aged 18 and over) from racially minoritised communities experiencing significant economic disadvantage.

·        In 2024, applications from Wales and Yorkshire and Humber favoured as it invested less funding in these areas in 2023, and they have been identified as regions where racially minoritised people are more likely to be living in poverty, relative to the white population.

·        A free information webinar and live Q&A panel will be held on 24 April 2024.

Deadline: 30 May 2024.

https://www.lloydsbankfoundation.org.uk/funding

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. 

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 £8,000 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. 

Deadline: 30th June 2024.

https://www.unltd.org.uk/awards/

Help to Grow: Management

Is a government-funded* 12 week leadership course delivered by Aston University, a world-class international Business School.

The course offers:

·        In-depth leadership training provided by business experts both online and face-to-face sessions designed to allow you to complete the course alongside running your business.

·        Strategies for growth and innovation, leading high-performance teams, and digital adoption, as well as financial management and responsible business practices.

·        Support to build resilience and develop a targeted Growth Action Plan for your business

The course is 90% funded by the government*. Businesses pay just £750 per participant. Eligibility criteria applies.

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

Elevate Fund

Supported by generous funding from Spirit of 2012, and in collaboration with Foundation for Future London. This London 2012 Legacy Partnership project is designed to bring the legacy from the London 2012 Games – past, present and future – to the forefront.

The Elevate Fund will distribute grants for the community with the community, and collaborate with funders to fund impactful projects that help young people and youth invested organisations from Newham, Hackney, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest.

Deadline: 02 June 2024

https://www.queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk/community/opportunities-park/elevate/elevate-fund

Health & Social Care Accelerator

Targeted to support community-based social enterprises and charities that work in health, wellbeing, and social care and feel ready to grow and scale. Applications from organisations working across key areas such as:

·        Health & Wellbeing

·        Community Health Services

·        Delivering counselling, therapy, and support for individuals dealing with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and trauma.

·        Offering guidance and advice on nutrition, meal planning, and dietary choices to promote healthy eating habits and improve overall health

·        Providing sessions promoting mental and emotional wellbeing

·        Social Care

·        Community Support Services

·        Domiciliary care

·        Supported living

·        High Support Needs (HSN) for young people

Eligibility:

·        Black and Minoritised led not-for-profit organisations that deliver services that improve the health, wellbeing, and social care of underrepresented communities in Bristol.

Information sessions:

16th May 2024 & 21st May 2024

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/health-social-care-accelerator-information-session-tickets-896069206117

Centre for Finance, Innovation and Technology (CFIT) report

Discover 'proofs of concept', developed with Citizens Advice and HSBC UK, showcasing how Open Finance can revolutionise financial advice for consumers and access to credit for SMEs.

Delve into our recommendations for advancing secure data-sharing and harnessing the full potential of Open Finance.

Explore their findings on how integrating Open Finance into the UK's financial ecosystem can help further unlock £30.5bn in GDP growth. The CEO Ezechi Britton has been one of hibretOne’s advisors.

By embracing Open Finance, CFIT aims to help drive forward more equitable access to financial services, bolster SME growth and empower consumers with greater control over their financial data.

https://bit.ly/3OYPmca

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 that fall under the following categories:

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

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.