SKDC Grant F&Qs

1. Will retrospective purchases be able to be Funded?

Applicants must not begin the project or commit funds until their application is formally approved.

Eligibility of projects does not guarantee acceptance.

Grant approval is not guaranteed until all checks are completed and confirmation is issued.

Approved grants will only be paid against evidence of defrayed expenditure

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 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.

 Adopting New-to-Business Technology or Processes  

Investing in digital tools, automation, or modern systems that are new to your company but proven in your industry.

Launching into New Markets

Activities that help your business start trading in new sectors, regions, or countries — for example, export development or sector diversification.

Creating New-to-Market Products  

Projects developing products or services that are innovative within your industry, not just to your business.

R&D Projects  

Research and development that will help validate ideas, develop prototypes, or explore new ways to serve your market.