Wakefield Investment Grant Scheme 2009-2010
The Wakefield Investment Grant, offered by first, is a new financial assistance scheme available to pre-start, young and established businesses operating in the Wakefield District. The scheme provides a financial contribution to help bring business ideas and project proposals forward and create additional investment and/or new jobs.
Potential uses for the grant include:
- Research and development or bringing a product to market
- Implementation of innovative ideas that result in reducing cost and increasing productivity
- The purchase of new plant and equipment which will increase productivity and business competitiveness
- Environmental projects that benefit the business and have the support of the wider community through recycling initiatives or waste management schemes, and projects that benefit the business, by reducing energy costs for example
- IT developments and infrastructure which support the introduction and use of e-commerce and the improvement of management and financial systems to increase competitiveness
- Introduction of crime reduction measures to business premises that improve the safety of employees, customers, and the general public
These examples are not exclusive and are provided for illustrative purposes.
The grant cannot be used to fund projects that the Grant Awards Panel deems to fall within one of the following areas:
- Fulfilling statutory obligations
- Working capital
- Building maintenance
- Creating unfair competition with similar businesses in the area
- Supporting religious or political activity
Who’s Eligible: Any business operating in the Wakefield District can apply. Priority will be given to applicants that have not previously benefitted under a grant scheme, as well as to those businesses employing fewer than 250 people.
What’s Available: Businesses which have been trading for less than 18 months can apply for support of up to 40% of eligible project costs, with businesses that have been trading for 18 months or longer able to apply for support of up to 30%. The maximum grant which can be applied for is £5,000.
The Wakefield Investment Grant scheme is now closed for applications as all funding has been allocated for this year.
How To Apply: Initially you will need to complete and return a grant application form which is available by clicking here. Please ensure that you have read the grant criteria and guidance notes before completing the application form. Completed grant application forms will be assessed by a Grant Appraisal Officer.
