The Business Advisory Service provides information and advice on grants and loans to help people starting up in business or to support existing businesses.
For grant and loan schemes, applicants must meet certain criteria. For example, you may have to live in a certain area or use a grant for a specific purpose.
Before applying for finance we recommend you talk to a business advisor from our Business Advisory Service for free independent financial advice (contact details below).
Frequently asked questions
Can you provide me with cash to help me start my business?
No. We do not provide financial support directly, but we can give you details of how to access grants or loans from banks and other schemes.
How do I access financial support?
You will need to complete a detailed and robust business plan which will provide the bank or lender with sufficient confidence that you will be able to repay the loan.
Will I have to pay back the money?
- If you apply for a grant, you will not need to pay back the money.
- If you apply for a loan, you will normally have to pay back the money you borrow plus interest. Banks charge a commercial rate, while some loan schemes supported by the Government offer lower interest rates.