Focus on "Business Link, Small Business Gateway, Business Connect, Invest Northern Ireland"

Call the following numbers for details of the nearest Business Link, Business Connect, Small Business Gateway, or Invest Northern Ireland (formerly Local Enterprise Development Unit):

• England - Business Link National Contact Centre 0845 600 9006
• Wales - Business Connect 0845 796 9798
• Scotland - Small Business Gateway 0845 609 6611
• Northern Ireland - Invest Northern Ireland 02890 239090

They will be able to provide full details of:

Nation-wide schemes, including;

• The Prince's Youth Business Trust Grants and Loans
• Livewire Business Start up Awards
• DTI Loan Guarantee Scheme
• Enterprise Investment Scheme
• New Deal and Training For Work Schemes

Other locally administered schemes, which vary considerably from area to area, but may include some or all of the following;

• grants for start up and other costs (either one-off payments or a weekly allowance)
• grants for training leading to vocational skills
• grants to help existing businesses grow (eg by developing new products, marketing initiatives, exporting etc)
• shop fronts/property refurbishment grants
• free business training courses, advice and counselling
• preferential business loans
• introductions to sources of venture capital

In addition, certain schemes are available in specified regions only;

• Regional selective assistance (in designated Assisted Areas)
• Redundant buildings grants (in Rural Development Areas)
• British Steel (Industry) Limited, and British Coal Enterprise may offer development loans or other financial assistance to businesses in areas affected by the decline of these industries
• Funding for businesses in inner city areas