Go Green, Digital and Innovate Grant Schemes open for applications

The council launched three new grant schemes at the recent Harborough Go Green Business Convention that are designed to provide vital financial support for local organisations in the Harborough district.

Funding of up to £2,000 is available to support projects that align with one of the following themes:

• Go Green: Aimed at helping businesses reduce their carbon footprints, increase energy efficiency, and lower fixed costs.
• Go Digital: Supports the adoption of digital technologies to improve business performance and enhance online customer engagement.
• Go Innovate: Provides funding for new products or methods to improve efficiencies and drive business growth.

To qualify, businesses must have completed the Leicestershire Business Advice Service (LBAS) programme and must include an LBAS action plan in their grant application.

The grants will close on Thursday 31 October 2024, however funds will be allocated on a first come first served basis for those who meet the criteria, so early application is encouraged.

For details on how and where to apply visit the council’s grants page at: www.harborough.gov.uk/ukspf-grant

Cllr Jo Asher, Cabinet lead for Culture, Leisure, Economy and Tourism, said: “We are thrilled to open these grants and support our local businesses in their growth journeys. The Go Green, Digital, and Innovate Grants provide essential funding that can help businesses implement sustainable practices, embrace digital advancements, and innovate for the future. I encourage all eligible businesses to take advantage of this opportunity.”

These grants are being managed and distributed by Harborough District Council using £46,000 received from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

This project builds on the success of the 2023 UK Shared Prosperity Fund Grant Scheme which supported local businesses.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. 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, visit: www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus