other Funding and Business Support Available
If you want to access funding to set up, expand your existing operation, develop new products and services, here is a list of some of the support available aimed at providing help for small businesses and organisations based in Cumbria.
Access to Finance
ESIF Funding
Cumbria is a recipient of funding from the European Structural Investment Funds (ESIF) programme, which includes the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), European Social Fund (ESF) and European Agriculture Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD). For details of current funding opportunities and more information go to http://www.cumbriaesif.co.uk
Countryside Productivity Scheme
The RDPE Countryside Productivity Scheme provides funding for projects in England which improve productivity in the farming and forestry sectors and help create jobs and growth in the rural economy.
It is administered by the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) and there are currently grants available for:
- water resource management and reservoirs
- improving forestry productivity
- adding value to Agri-food
- improving farm productivity
www.gov.uk/guidance/countryside-productivity-scheme
The Business Finance Guide
This Government guide for SMEs sets out the full range of debt and equity finance options for start-ups and businesses looking to grow. GREAT Business also offers further guidance , including start-up loans and how to find private sector support.
Better Business Finance
My Business Support Tool Provides impartial information and support to businesses and entrepreneurs looking to develop and grow. Its website contains a wealth of information and support, including an appeals process if you've been turned down by your bank, tips for a successful finance application and advice on writing a business plan.
Business Support
Business Support Helpline
The Business Support Helpline offers advice and guidance to new and existing businesses. It has information on national and local schemes, grants and loans to help businesses start and grow.
Calls to 0300 number will cost the same as calls to geographic numbers (starting 01 or 02), and may be included as part of any inclusive call minutes or discount schemes in the same way as geographic calls as defined by your provider.
Telephone: 0300 456 3565 Monday to Friday, 9am - 6pm
Cumbria Business Growth Hub
Through the Growth Hub you can access services – including advice, training, events, funding, networking and more – delivered directly through the Growth Hub or through linkage with the range of other support and training providers operating in the county.
To start taking advantage of Cumbria Business Growth Hub visit http://www.cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk, call 0844 257 8450 or email info@cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk
Enterprise Europe Network
A business support network https://www.enterprise-europe.co.uk with a presence in 64 countries globally. Helps small and medium enterprises, universities, research institutions and other organisations to innovate and internationalise by:
1. Providing advice on doing business in other countries.
2. Help find collaborative partners for business, technology transfer or for research projects.
3. Help to access funding and finance.
Call 0300 123 3066 or email contact@enterprise-europe.co.uk
Also go to our LINKS and PARTNERS page for more details about organisations that can help you.
