SKDC Grant FAQs

1. What measures demonstrate growth for this Business Growth Grant?

Growth in business can take many forms, but for projects to be eligible for this fund, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund identifies the following measures:

• Jobs Created or Safeguarded

Projects that directly result in hiring new staff or retaining jobs that were at risk without the investment.

• Upskilling or Training Outcomes  

Projects that enable staff to complete certified training, gain new qualifications, or significantly enhance their skills.

• Innovation & Modernisation

New or Improved Products/Services

Introducing something new or improving your existing offer to meet customer demand or enter new markets.

2. What the Grant Cannot Fund

❌ Land or building purchases

❌ Vehicles or mobile infrastructure (e.g. food trucks)

❌ Day-to-day running costs (rent, salaries, utilities)

❌ Paying off debts or taxes

❌ Replacing old equipment like-for-like

❌ Buying stock or inventory

3. What defines a micro, small, or medium-sized enterprise?

• Micro entity – a micro enterprise or sole trader with no more than 10 employees.

• Small company – a small enterprise of no more than 50 employees.

• Medium sized company– a medium sized enterprise of no more than 250 employees.

4. Can retrospective purchases be funded through this grant?

No, applicants must not begin the project or commit funds until their application is formally approved.

Please note:

• Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee your application will be approved.

• A grant is only confirmed once all necessary checks have been completed and formal approval has been issued.

• Grant payments will only be made upon submission of valid evidence showing that the approved costs have been paid (defrayed expenditure).