A new round of funding for small businesses in Shropshire will open on Monday 12 May.

The UK Shared Prosperity team within Shropshire Council will invite further applications for the UKSPF Small Capital Grant Scheme for Business from next week.  The grant has been one of their most successful schemes and has helped many small businesses in the county to innovate and grow.

The grant was initially launched in March 2024. To date, approximately £470,000 has been awarded to 77 businesses.

Businesses have utilised the grant for a diverse range of needs, including commercial kitchen equipment, shop fitouts, drones and 3D scanners.  It has also been used to purchase specialist equipment like embroidery machines, rehabilitation lasers, and even a Japanese Head Spa.

Nina Galley, owner of Hair by Nina & Co in Shrewsbury (right),used her £10,000 grant to invest in new equipment for her premises at Shrewsbury Business Park — including a Japanese Head Spa she anticipated would be a hit locally. The specialised treatment has rapidly gained popularity among clients, resulting in high demand. Consequently, Nina has created a new career opportunity for an employee who is now fully booked through to August.

Nina said:

“The grant allowed me to fully equip my new salon, enhance the range of services I offer, and introduce an innovative new treatment. It’s helped me grow my client base and expand my team. I’d strongly encourage other small business owners to make the most of this funding opportunity while it’s available.”

A company located in Bishop’s Castle used its grant to construct a facility for hosting events and workshops.

Fiona Pidduck owner of New Hope Daylilies said:

“With the grant we’ve been able to create a space (left) for events and workshops that will generate income and promote our brand. It’s been a great boost for the business.”

Companies from 1 to 49 employees can apply for the grant if their business is physically located in the Shropshire Council local authority area.

Applicants will need to demonstrate how the grant will help them create new employment opportunities, or develop new products, processes, or services. They will also be expected to match-fund the amount of grant applied for by at least 50% of the total investment.

Gary Spence, Shropshire Council’s external funding and technical lead officer in the economy, funding and skills team, said:

“As in previous rounds, initially we require applicants to complete an online Expression of Interest (EOI) form. These EOIs will be assessed by a panel, and projects successfully passing this first stage will be invited to submit a full application.

“However, once again we also urge potential applicants to read the eligibility and guidelines carefully before completing the EOI.”

Heather Kidd, Shropshire Council’s Leader-elect, added:

“This proves how beneficial external funding can be when made available to our Shropshire businesses.  We intend to work hard to access more funding of this kind to grow and develop the economy in the county.”

Full details and the Expression of Interest form can be accessed here UKSPF Expression of interest form guidance | Shropshire Council

Anyone with any questions or queries about applying should email ukspfgrants@shropshire.gov.uk.  Unfortunately, queries cannot be dealt with over the telephone.

More details can also be found here: UKSPF Small Capital Grant Scheme for Businesses leaflet

 Further information

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund provided £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. From this fund, £15m was acquired for projects across Shropshire.

The fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.

For more information about the many projects being funded through UKSPF in Shropshire, visit:  https://www.investinshropshire.co.uk/uk-shared-prosperity-projects/