£1.8 million growth grant programme to help Bedfordshire businesses
Bedfordshire businesses can apply for a new £1.8 million growth grant programme in the South Midlands.
The new funding programme aims to accelerate the growth of South Midlands small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), by driving innovation, advancing local economic priorities and supporting decarbonisation ambitions. Micro-enterprises and sole traders are also set to benefit.
The South Midlands Growth Grant, launched by South Midlands Growth Hub, will be awarded over a three-year period - designed to empower businesses, traders and small enterprises. Eligible businesses across Bedfordshire, Milton Keynes and Northamptonshire can apply for funding between £300 and £50,000. The money will support investments in innovation, adoption of new technologies and improving green credentials.
Ruth Roan, South Midlands Growth Hub manager said: “The launch of the South Midlands Growth Grant is a significant moment for our business community. Our micro-businesses and SMEs are at the forefront of business growth, and we must provide a platform to ensure their growth can accelerate.
“Our ambition is to help businesses maximise their strengths, create business resilience and generate sustainable growth. We’re excited to launch the South Midlands Growth Grant and to see the impact it has on our region.”
Jason Longhurst, chairman of the South Midlands Business Board said: “The South Midlands Growth Grant is a catalyst for ambition, unlocking the potential of our region’s business community. This is a strategic investment in innovation, resilience, and growth, aligned with the ambitions set out in our new South Midlands Economic Growth Strategy.
“By backing the small and medium-sized businesses that power our economy, we’re not just supporting growth - we’re building a stronger, more dynamic South Midlands that leads with enterprise, confidence, and global competitiveness.”
Businesses interested in applying for the South Midlands Growth Grant can submit an Expression of Interest to the Growth Hub, outlining the project and the amount of funding needed. The deadline for applications is December 17 at 5pm.