Business funding
Our Economic Development team's remit includes expanding East Lothian's business base and funding for businesss is fundamental to this aim.
We provide sources of financial support to new and established businesses based in East Lothian. Each support programme has its own application process, but you should note that applications may require a detailed business plan with financial projections.
Eligibility conditions and criteria change. Because of this, we strongly recommend that you talk to one of our business advisers prior to making any application.
UK Shared Prosperity Fund New Business Support Grant
The UKSPF New Business Support Grant is being delivered as part of the Supporting Local Business Investment Priority to support entrepreneurship, business development, local and social economies.
A discretionary grant of £250 or £500 is available to eligible newly self-employed individuals and newly incorporated companies to purchase equipment, goods or services.
To find out more information, eligibility and how to apply, please read the guidance notes below.
Start-Up Loan
The Start Up Loan is a UK Government funded scheme that helps people who have a viable business idea get the funding they need to start their own business.
Businesses can:
- borrow up to £25,000
- fixed interest rate of 6% per annum
- 1-5 year repayment term
- 12 months of free mentoring
- Government-backed
For more information visit the Start Up Loans website.
Looking for Funding?
Tyne & Esk Rural Development Fund are delighted to announce free access to funding information in Rural East and Midlothian* for charitable, voluntary sector organisations and enterprises. The Tyne & Esk Local Action Group which receives funding from the Scottish Government, has taken a subscription to Grant Finder. The website is a free resource with information on hundreds of grant funders nationwide, including what they fund, how much they give and how to apply. You can use this tool completely free just by registering on the Grant Finder website.
*The urban centres of Musselburgh and Dalkeith are excluded with the exception of Dalkeith Country Park.
Find Business Support
FindBusinessSupport.gov.scot directs your business to Scotland's public sector support. It gives customers an overview of all funding and services offered by public sector organisations across Scotland. This makes it quicker and easier for businesses to find the information, advice and support they need, when they need it.
Information is available for businesses of all sizes - from start ups to established companies, from sole traders to larger enterprises, from commercial businesses to social enterprises.