Quick guide to finding coronavirus (Covid-19) business support
- First, decide whether you are looking for funding or guidance, then enter the relevant part of the site from the Coronavirus Advice page.
- Use the filtering system to find the most relevant funding or guidance for your business – this will help you tailor your search and identify support specific to your company or organisation.
- When applying for funding, take time to review the eligibility criteria and application guidance. The majority of unsuccessful applications occur because businesses have applied for the wrong fund or were ineligible for the fund.
- Each fund page will outline all the important information you need, including eligibility criteria, costs, how long it takes and next steps.
- View the additional FAQs below, use the "Contact us" button or call 0300 303 0660 if you need more help.
- Sign up for email updates to ensure you get the most up-to-date information direct to your inbox, and follow us on Twitter @scotent
Can a business apply for more than one fund?
A business may be eligible for more than one fund. Eligibility criteria are listed on each of the fund pages and it is important to review this before applying.
What information is required to apply for funding?
This varies depending on the grant, so check the specific eligibility criteria carefully, but you may be asked for:
- For registered companies, a Companies House number. You’ll find this on the Companies House website.
- For registered charities, a Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) number. You’ll find this on the OSCR website.
- For sole traders, a VAT number if you have one, and/or a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number with evidence, such as an HMRC document, showing the UTR number.
- For partnerships, the UTR numbers of up to four partners.
- For trusts, a copy of your Deed of Trust.
- The business bank account details for the business applying. Always give details of a business bank account if you have one.
- A personal account can be used provided you can show it has been used for business purposes. Check these details carefully, as we won’t be able to update your bank details after you submit your application.
- Bank statements showing previous trading activity.
- Your turnover for your last full trading year before March 2020 and evidence of your pre-Covid turnover. This should be your last full year of audited or unaudited accounts, or a tax return. If you haven’t been trading a full year and don’t have these documents, provide whatever documentation you can to demonstrate previous trading history and turnover.
- Any information you give about your business (such as your registered name and address) MUST match the information held by official bodies such as HMRC, Companies House or the OSCR. We’ll be using these official bodies and other checks to verify your business, so make sure this information is up to date before you apply.
Can Scottish-based businesses apply for UK Government funds?
Yes - there are funds which are open to all UK businesses. Visit the support checker on the UK Government site to check what other funding is available.
What are the most common reasons for funding applications being declined?
It is important to carefully review the eligibility criteria and application process before you apply. The majority of unsuccessful applications are due to ineligibility or failure to provide the correct information in the application process. If in doubt, you should check with the organisation delivering the fund.
Why are there bespoke funds for some sectors and not others?
Specific funds have been created for some of the hardest hit sectors and where businesses are not eligible for other funding. Funding is continually being reviewed, so keep checking the Find Business Support website for updates on what support may be available.
Will businesses have to pay back any of the funding?
With the exception of loan funding, the funding provided is on a grant basis.
Will other funds be introduced in the future?
Details of any new funds will be published on Find Business Support as early as possible to allow businesses time to review and prepare.
How can I be sure I’m receiving/accessing the right and most up-to-date information for my business?
findbusinesssupport.gov.scot is the central information point for all business support in Scotland. The site is updated as soon as information is available, and we encourage businesses to sign up for the regular newsletter to ensure they don’t miss important updates.
Who can I speak to for more information and advice on business support during the pandemic?
findbusinesssupport.gov.scot is the central information point for business advice and support in Scotland. If you can’t find what you need, you can use the “Contact us” link on the site or call 0300 303 0660.