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Wiltshire Council Launches Business Fit for Future Programme to Support Local Businesses

Wiltshire Council has launched the Business Fit for Future programme to support local businesses in starting up, growing, and thriving through grants and expert advice, aligning with the UK Shared Prosperity programme.
By Tim Burghes,

Wiltshire Council is proud to announce the launch of its new Business Fit for Future programme, designed to support local businesses in starting up, growing, and thriving in a rapidly changing economy. This initiative aligns with the central government's investment priorities as part of the UK Shared Prosperity programme (UKSPF). For more information, please visit the UK Shared Prosperity Fund: prospectus on gov.uk.

The Business Fit for Future scheme offers grants to help new businesses get off the ground and support existing businesses in their growth and development. The programme aims to foster innovation, productivity, and long-term success for businesses in the Wiltshire Council area.

Grants Available:
  1. Start Up Grant
    • Designed for new businesses and entrepreneurs at the beginning of their journey.
    • Assists with early-stage investment to turn ideas into viable businesses.
    • Grant amounts range from £2,000 to £15,000, with a requirement to provide at least 40% of the total investment costs.
    • Eligible expenses include branding, marketing, communications, equipment, tools, machinery, digital technology, professional qualifications, accreditations, and trading infrastructure.
  2. Fit for Growth Grant
    • For established businesses looking to grow.
    • Supports investments in productivity, innovation, and expansion.
    • Grant amounts range from £5,000 to £30,000, with a requirement to provide at least 50% of the total investment costs.
    • Eligible expenses include new processes, digital technologies, reaching new customers or markets, expanding or adapting premises, and training costs for upskilling staff.
How to Apply
Businesses interested in applying for the grants can complete the expression of interest form and email it to uksharedprosperity@wiltshire.gov.uk. Detailed guidance is available in the form to assist applicants. Successful expressions of interest will be invited to submit a full application. If not successful, applicants may be referred to support partners for further development of their ideas. Full details can be found here: https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/business-fit-for-future
 

Wiltshire Council and the Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Hub is committed to supporting local businesses and fostering a thriving economic environment. We encourage all eligible businesses to take advantage of this opportunity and join us in building a prosperous future for Wiltshire.

If your thinking of starting a business or you business is set to grow, contact us today for free impartial advice, guidance, access to funding, training and signposting, speak to one of the team on 01249 477287 or via email  HelloSWGrowthhub@wiltshire.gov.uk