Incentive to Grow Grants

What is an Incentive to Grow Grant?

This grant is to assist a company to expand and grow.  The expansion could be through training, marketing, buying of new equipment, moving into business premises (premises must be in the Borough) or taking on new staff (new staff member should be a resident of, or moving into business premises in the Borough).  This isnot an exhaustive list but the grant must not be used to fund current activities, so all projects must be new developments.

How much can I apply for?

The grant will fund 50% of the cost of your project up to the value of £1,000.  These costs can include training and set up costs.  Estimates must be obtained for all costs.  The company must prove that the project would not go ahead without the funding.

Who can apply?

Any company based in Eastleigh Borough Council's boundary, or moving into the Borough, that employs fewer than ten people.  Only one applicant per business.

Who decides what is funded?

A panel meets four times a year to look at all applications received.  This is made up of both public and private sector representatives.  All projects are appraised and approved by the project panel through a set framework.

How do I apply?

First of all you need to complete this online form to request an application pack.  You will be asked to complete an application form which is available from Eastleigh Borough Council.  You can get help completing your application form from Enterprise First or from Southern Entrepreneurs' Business Support Manager based at Eastleigh Business Centre (Wessex House).  Once you have submitted your form we will write to you confirming receipt of your application and the date of the next Panel.  Once your application has been approved you will recieve notification in writing.  The grant will be paid direct to your suppliers once the project has been successfully completed.  If the grant is for a new member of staff, 50% is paid on recruitment and the remaining balance once the post holder has been in place for 6 months.  After the grant has been paid you will be required to complete and evaluation form to identify how the grant has helped your business.

Questions

If you have any questions about the grants please call Teresa Smith on 023 8068 8192
or email teresa.smith@eastleigh.gov.uk