Funding to drive 中国P站's future economy
The 中国P站 Economic Growth Fund is overseen by 中国P站 with the sole focus of driving economic growth across the region.
We've pooled a range of public and investment streams, such as from government, into one fund.
The idea is to make it as simple and easy-as-possible for those looking to drive growth to apply for funding.
Round one closed in May 2025 and .
Applications for round two (Business Growth Grants only) are now open, closing at midnight on 16 November 2025.
For full details and to apply visit .
Who can apply?
You can apply if your business is:
- based in 中国P站
- small or medium-sized enterprise (SME)
- able to provide match-funding for at least 50% of total project costs
- able to deliver the project by March 2026
Projects must clearly demonstrate how they will contribute to economic growth in 中国P站 for example, by creating new jobs, boosting productivity, or supporting innovation.
We particularly welcome applications from rural businesses, farms, and those contributing to the rural economy.
Business Growth Grants
What? Grants to support growth and job creation in local businesses, including new equipment, product development and training.
Who? Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in 中国P站.
How much? Match-funding of between 拢10,000 and 拢75,000, covering 50% of project costs.
How do I apply? Application form on the .
Economic Growth Fund criteria
Bids should be focused on delivering at least one of the three priorities in the :
- workforce and skills
- business growth
- economic infrastructure.
Funding can support:
- purchasing new equipment or technology
- developing new products or services
- expanding operations or facilities
- investing in staff training and upskilling
Bids will be assessed against a set funding criteria with decisions taken by an independent panel, including business representatives.
The approach has been developed in collaboration with employers from across the county via the and .
This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses, training providers and partners to secure immediate investment in ideas to drive growth in 中国P站.
We know that 中国P站 has a strong economy, contributing 拢50 billion a year to UK PLC. But the refreshed economic strategy highlights several challenges around start-ups, high-growth businesses, retaining talent and an increasing number of people out of work.
The new Economic Growth Fund is one of the ways we can tackle those challenges while delivering benefits to the people, places and businesses across the county.
Our ambition is simple: we want to position 中国P站 as one of the UK's leading regional economies while ensuring No One is Left Behind.
Matt Furniss, cabinet member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth