As we step into September, it’s hard to believe we’ve already entered the meteorological autumn. The season of fresh beginnings is upon us, with children starting new schools and businesses gearing up for the final quarter of the year.
If you’re a business owner in Hull or East Yorkshire, some exciting opportunities on the horizon could help you achieve your goals. Here’s a roundup of the latest grants and support programmes available in the region.
Hull-Based Business Support
Hull Business Energy Efficiency Scheme (HBEES2)
- Grants Available: £500 to £10,000
- Purpose: To assist businesses in saving energy and reducing carbon emissions.
- Grant Details: Covers 40% of project costs (before VAT). Projects can include LED lighting, solar panels, and more.
- How to Apply: Email business.support@hullcc.gov.uk
Hull Business Training Grant
- Grants Available: Up to £1,500 per employee (maximum 3 employees)
- Purpose: To support the training and upskilling of the current workforce.
- Grant Details: Covers 50% of training costs. Ideal for Xero/Sage training, CAD training, CNC optimisation, etc.
- How to Apply: Email business.support@hullcc.gov.uk
Young Entrepreneurs Support
- Programmes: MC4C and John Cracknell Youth Bank
- Purpose: To support young people in starting their own businesses.
- Details: Provides an alternative to the traditional routes of university or paid employment.
- More Info: Visit youthenterprise.co.uk
Hull Business Loan Scheme
- Loan Amounts: £60,260 to £500,000 (higher amounts considered)
- Purpose: To support capital projects for businesses within Hull City Council boundaries.
- Details: Works in syndication with FCA-accredited lenders, offering flexible rates, terms, and security.
- How to Apply: Contact the business support team at Hull City Council.
Manufacturing Review
- Purpose: To help manufacturing businesses reduce wasted effort, cut operational costs, and improve productivity.
- Details: A sector specialist will conduct a thorough review of operations, pinpointing strengths and weaknesses.
- Cost: Fully funded.
Workshop Programme
- Details: A variety of workshops are available across the region, covering a wide range of subjects.
- More Info: Visit Invest Hull | EVENTS
Business Support Across the Region
HEY Business, Growth and Skills Hub – Growing Places Grant
- Grants Available: £5,000 to £250,000
- Purpose: Job creation and investment in plant and machinery.
- Grant Support: Ranges from 10% to 50% of project costs (before VAT).
- More Info: Visit Growing Places Fund
Made Smarter Programme
- Purpose: To boost digital skills, innovation, and adoption of new technologies in manufacturing.
- Details: Offers support in leadership, innovation, and technology adoption.
- More Info: Visit Made Smarter Programme
Innovate UK – UKRI
- Purpose: To support businesses involved in innovation and R&D projects.
- Grants Available: £5,000 to £1,000,000
- Support Range: 30% to 90% of project costs.
- More Info: Visit Innovate UK
University of Hull Business Support
- Aura Innovation Centre
- Flood Innovation Centre
- Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) – up to £35,000 of support
- Humber Internship Programme (HIP) – 12-week part-funded internships
- SME Business Clinics and Help to Grow Programmes
- More Info: Visit Supporting growth and innovation | University of Hull
Support for East Yorkshire-Based Businesses
East Riding of Yorkshire Business Grant Schemes
Grants Available:
- Business Support for Growth: 50% of project costs up to £5,000
- Business Carbon Reduction Grant: Up to £20,000
- Capital Grants for Plant and Machinery: £1,000 to £50,000
More Info: Visit Invest East Yorkshire
Final Reminders
If you’re interested in any of these schemes, it’s important to speak to the relevant business support team and complete the necessary paperwork before starting your project. Pre-application expenditure often invalidates grant requests.
As always, if you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to get in touch. Wishing you a happy and successful month ahead!
