This fund is for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Highland Council area that are looking to grow or introduce a new product, process or innovation.

Businesses can apply for a grant to cover up to 50% of their eligible project costs, to a maximum of £10,000. If your project costs are higher and you need additional support to cover them, Business Gateway Highland can help you find other potential funding sources.

The Business Growth Fund can be used to help your business grow or diversify in various ways, such as:

• the introduction of new, innovative technology products or services that improve performance - these do not need to be unique, just new to your business
• premises improvement or expansion related to business development or new products or services
• acquiring capital equipment to enable a more technical or efficiency/productivity enhanced approach
• the introduction of flexible working or new practices for staff, or enhancing customer services
• investment in new systems or processes for operations

You will need to submit a business growth plan with your application. For help with this, contact the local Business Gateway Highland office.

To be eligible for the grant, you must be an established small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) in the Highland Council area.

You must show that your business is looking to create new jobs, expand or move premises, or invest in equipment, or that it needs additional support to grow.

This funding cannot be used for:

• essential running costs such as insurance, salaries, utility charges, recruitment
  fees and tax
• stock and accredited training
• goods or services you've already purchased
• broadband or ICT costs
• existing loans or debts
• replacing old for new equipment on a like-for-like basis

You cannot apply for projects that have already started.

This list is not exhaustive and further eligibility criteria may apply. 

It is free to apply.

The grant will cover up to 50% of your eligible project costs, to a maximum of £10,000. You will need to be prepared to cover the rest from other sources.

Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Highland Council area.

Allow enough time to put together the supplementary information required for your application. This includes a business growth plan and financial projections. 

For support with your application, contact the local Business Gateway office in Highland.

Submit an enquiry and an adviser will be in touch to discuss your needs.