New start-up grant for businesses launched

A new start-up grant scheme for businesses has been designed, developed and launched by Aberdeenshire Council following previous successes.

Funded entirely through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, the scheme has been created through feedback from businesses and past grant schemes offered by the council. 

Under the new grant scheme, start-up businesses can now apply for £1,000 to help get a new venture off the ground or £3,000 if it is taking on premises. 

Business will be supported through the Business Gateway service and have an advisor support them.

The grant scheme in 2024/25 supported 183 application and of those 27 were supported to take on premises.

Cllr Alan Turner, chair of the council’s Infrastructure Services Committee, said: “After the 2024/25 start-up grant scheme’s success, it’s great to see the return of this vital funding. One of the biggest barriers to starting up is access to capital. The scheme directly supports this along with delivering on Aberdeenshire Council’s plan. Grant funding such as this removes barriers, providing Aberdeenshire-based businesses with the financial means to improve their ability to start up and grow in a manner which will be faster than could otherwise be achieved. 

“This funding has been leveraged from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund through a competitive challenge process. It illustrates our team’s efforts in supporting Aberdeenshire business communities by being proactive not only within the resources they have, but also in identifying new opportunities. The current climate is challenging for businesses.

"This funding allows people to turn a dream into a reality, whether that be on a full-time or part-time basis. Aberdeenshire has always been an entrepreneurial environment and this funding demonstrates our support towards businesses which will help create even greater economic prosperity. I would encourage anyone who is interested in developing a new business to contact us without delay to discuss our funding programme which could provide the support they require to realise their dreams.”

For more information on the grant schemes visit: https://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/business/business-support/funding/business-start-up-grant/