There is still time to apply for the Be the Business Start-up and Grow Grants 2014-15. The deadline for the fund is 15th September 2014 at 5pm.
 
A pot of £600,000 is available to help businesses to start-up and to grow in West Sussex.
 
If you would like more information about the grants you can attend one of our FREE information workshops being held in August (to book your place click here) or of you need help developing your bid you can book a FREE 1-2-1 session with one of our qualified business advisers. To book a 1-2-1 session please email info@bethebusiness.org.

This programme is for start-ups, early-stage companies (1-2 years) and for established and growing businesses in West Sussex where, if applicable, the business rates are/will be paid. Businesses planning to relocate in West Sussex are also eligible but if successful, the grant will only be paid after relocation has taken place. The programme is open to micro and Small and Medium Size Enterprises (SMEs) in West Sussex.
 
Applicants will be required to provide at least 50% of the total project costs as match-funding. The business proposal must be linked to the creation or safeguarding of jobs in West Sussex.
 
This year, 50% of the funding available will be dedicated to specific sectors we wish to encourage to come forward with their ideas, particularly to submit bids with other businesses in the same sector to address problems they have in common.
 
These sectors are:
•Manufacturing, particularly linked to healthcare, aviation or marine industry
•Low carbon and renewable technologies
•Tourism and local food
•Care
•Land based businesses
 
The remaining 50% of the fund will be open to applications from all sectors.
 
The maximum amount of grant that can be requested for any individual project is £25,000.  The maximum amount that can be requested for any sector project submitted in consortium is £75,000.  Only sector projects can be submitted in consortium.
 
For full details including eligibility criteria, guidelines, application form and grant agreements please visit www.bethebusiness.org/grants
 
Please feel free to circulate this information to anyone you think it may be of interest to.