How do I find UK business grants?

Use the grant eligibility checker above. Key sources include Innovate UK (innovateuk.ukri.org), your local Growth Hub (via businesssupport.gov.uk), the UKSPF (UK Shared Prosperity Fund), and Innovate UK EDGE. Always check GOV.UK for the latest eligibility criteria.

Can start-ups apply for UK business grants?

Yes. Start Up Loans (up to £25,000 at 6% fixed, government-backed) are specifically designed for pre-revenue or early-stage businesses. SEIS (Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme) also helps very early-stage companies attract investors with up to 50% income tax relief.

Do I have to repay business grants?

True grants do not need to be repaid. However, Start Up Loans are technically loans (not grants) — they must be repaid with interest. Some grants have clawback conditions if conditions are breached. Always read the terms carefully.

Grant Eligibility Checker — Find UK Business Grants | Yolist Compass

Grant Eligibility Checker

Answer a short quiz to find UK business grants and funding programmes that match your business stage, sector, size and location.

About your business

Business stage

Sector

Location

Region within England

Business size

Annual turnover

We undertake R&D activityWe export or plan to exportRural location

How UK business grants work

Business grants are non-repayable funds awarded by government, local authorities, or other bodies. Unlike loans, you don't pay them back — but competition is fierce and eligibility criteria are strict.

Key sources of UK business funding

Innovate UK— R&D grants for innovative businesses, any size, across the UK.
UKSPF — UK Shared Prosperity Fund replaces EU Structural Funds; delivered locally through Growth Hubs.
Start Up Loans — Government-backed loans (not grants) up to £25,000 at 6% fixed; mentoring included.
DEFRA / RPA — Sustainable Farming Incentive and Countryside Stewardship for agricultural businesses in England.
Made Smarter — Manufacturing technology grants for SMEs in the North of England.

Tips for a successful grant application

Check closing dates — many grants have rolling or deadline-based applications.
Match your objectives precisely to the grant criteria.
Keep records of eligible expenditure for audit purposes.
Consider engaging a grant writing specialist for large bids.

Disclaimer: Grant programmes change frequently. Always verify eligibility and deadlines on the official GOV.UK pages before applying. This tool is for guidance only and does not guarantee eligibility.