Grants of up to £4,000 are available from the City of Edinburgh Council to help local businesses cover their start-up costs in their first year of trading.

The main purpose of the funding is to help owners grow their business more quickly and successfully than they could without the grant. The grants are designed to help companies cover the costs of new start-up business activities, while also supporting local employment and investment.

There are 2 levels of grant available. If you operate your business from a formally leased commercial premise, you can apply for a grant of £4,000. Other businesses can apply for a grant of £1,000.

The grant scheme is run by Business Gateway Edinburgh, and a Business Gateway adviser must submit your application. If you wish to apply, you should contact Business Gateway Edinburgh to get your business allocated to an adviser.

This grant is funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the City of Edinburgh Council. 

Yes, if your business:

• is a company registered in Scotland
• is based in the City of Edinburgh Council area
• has been trading for at least 3 months, but not more than 12 months

There are 2 levels of grant available. If you operate your business from a formally leased commercial premise, you can apply for a grant of £4,000. Other businesses can apply for a grant of £1,000.

Each level has different eligibility criteria and requires you to submit different evidence. Your Business Gateway adviser will provide an application guidance document with full details.

There is no cost to apply for this funding. 

Start-up businesses of any size based in the City of Edinburgh Council area.

You'll receive a decision on your application within 10 working days.

The grant is usually paid out about 16 weeks from the date of the grant award.

Applications will be accepted until all the funding available has been distributed. Your Business Gateway adviser will let you know when you enquire.

Visit the City of Edinburgh Council website to get more information on the grant scheme and to find out how to get an application form.