Business Advice & Information

Our Economic Development team's remit is to expand East Lothian's business base and funding for business growth 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 all applications 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.

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. For more information visit the Start Up Loans website.

East Lothian Investments Ltd

Interest free loans are available for new start ups and existing businesses trading up to a ceiling of £25,000. 

For more information and application forms, visit East Lothian Investments.

Social Enterprise Funding

Economic Development provides grant assistance where appropriate for individuals looking to develop a social enterprise (£500 seed funding), starting up a social enterprise (75% up to a ceiling of £4,000) and developing an existing social enterprise (75% up to a ceiling of £4,000). For further information, please email economicdevelopment@eastlothian.gov.uk or call 01620 827282.