Funding for business

Help and Support for businesses during the COVID-19 restrictions

This page will be revised as quickly as possible in response to Government updates.  If you have an enquiry, please email economicdevelopment@eastlothian.gov.uk 

Discretionary Business Support Grant

Applications for this fund are now closed.

Strategic Framework Business Fund

The Strategic Framework Business Fund is now closed to applications.

The final four-weekly payment will be made on 22 March 2021.  As in previous months, this will consist of:

  • £2,000 for businesses with a rateable value up to £51,000
  • £3,000 for businesses with a rateable value of £51,001 or above

On 19 April 2021, all businesses in receipt of support through the Strategic Framework Business Fund will automatically receive a combined final 2-week supplement and a one-off restart grant to help them reopen.

Retailers in receipt of Strategic Framework Business Fund will be eligible for grants up to £7,500 based on rateable value:

  • for properties with a rateable value below £51,000: £7,000 (£6,000+£1,000)
  • for properties with a rateable value above £51,001: £7,500 (£6,000+£1,500)

Hospitality and leisure businesses in receipt of Strategic Framework Business Fund will be eligible for grants up to £19,500 based on rateable value:

  • for properties with a rateable value of £15,000 or under: £9,000 (£8,000+£1,000)
  • for properties with a rateable value between £15,001 and £51,000: £13,000 (£12,000+£1,000)
  • for properties with a rateable value of £51,001 or over: £19,500 (£18,000+£1,500)

Other sources of grants and funding:

Digital Enablement Loan

The Digital Enablement Loan is a Scottish Government initiative to provide loans to Scottish SMEs who wish to improve their digital capabilities and capacity.

  • borrow between £5k - £100k
  • interest free
  • up to 5 years repayment terms
  • no early repayment fees

For more information, eligibility and application process.

East Lothian Investments Ltd

ELI Ltd is a not-for-profit company, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, providing interest-free loans to East Lothian businesses.  It is managed by a Fund Manager and governed by a Board of Directors.

  • companies must be based within East Lothian
  • loans can be applied for up to £15,000 and are interest-free with a 5% arrangement fee
  • applications can be for any purpose, except debt repayment
  • loans awarded will normally be re-paid over a term of 48 months
  • open to businesses at all stages and all sectors and types of businesses, including start up
  • upfront repayment holiday may be available, if required

More information, including applicant guidance and application available visit East Lothian Investments.

North Berwick Trust grants

North Berwick Trust is offering grants to hard-hit businesses based in North Berwick to help them survive the COVID-19 emergency.  Grants of up to £5,000 will be awarded every month for at least the next 6 months, depending on COVID-19 developments.  Further information and application details are here.

BT Small Business Support Scheme

BT has introduced a range of new measures to help small business boost their connectivity, cash flow and confidence.  Find out more.