Small Business Grants Wales – What’s Available in 2025 and How to Apply?
Is There Funding Available for Small Businesses in Wales in 2025? In an increasingly competitive economy, how can small businesses in Wales access the funding they need to start, grow, or innovate? With the rising costs of doing business, access to financial support can make a critical difference in whether a business succeeds or stalls.
That’s why the Welsh Government, local authorities, and UK-level funding bodies continue to offer a diverse range of small business grants across Wales.
These grants are designed not just to provide financial aid, but to stimulate economic development, support entrepreneurship, and build a more sustainable and innovative business landscape throughout the country.
Whether you’re a sole trader just getting started, a rural business seeking expansion, or an innovative tech company looking to scale, there’s likely a grant to help support your goals. This guide outlines the major funding opportunities available in 2025, explains who qualifies, and provides advice on how to apply successfully.
What Kinds of Small Business Grants Are Offered in Wales?
Business grants in Wales are offered at both national and regional levels. Some are designed specifically for startups, while others aim to support innovation, reduce carbon emissions, or promote regional growth.
Grants may also be sector-specific, targeting industries such as tourism, technology, or creative services.
Importantly, most Welsh business grants are non-repayable, meaning businesses do not need to pay them back as long as they meet the required terms and conditions.
However, they usually only cover a portion of total project costs, with applicants expected to contribute match funding from their own resources or other financing.
Grants in Wales typically fall into one of the following categories:
- Startup support for new ventures or individuals becoming self-employed
- Innovation and research grants for companies developing new products, services, or processes
- Green business grants for energy-efficiency projects or environmental upgrades
- Sector-specific grants for industries like tourism, agriculture, or tech
- Regional development grants aimed at stimulating local economies, particularly in economically disadvantaged areas
What National Business Grants Are Available Across Wales?
Development Bank of Wales
Although not a traditional grant provider, the Development Bank of Wales plays a significant role in business finance through its wide-ranging loan and equity investment offerings.
It supports Welsh businesses at various stages, from startups to well-established enterprises.
The bank provides funding between £1,000 and £5 million, with interest rates fixed between 4% and 12%, depending on the business’s risk profile.
While repayments are required, the terms are often more favourable than those available from commercial lenders. This option suits businesses that are not eligible for grants but still need access to growth capital.
Young Person’s Start-Up Grant
For individuals under the age of 25 who are either living in Wales or planning to return, the Young Person’s Start-Up Grant offers up to £2,000 in funding.
Administered through Big Ideas Wales, this grant supports early-stage entrepreneurs with setup costs, including training, marketing, and equipment.
Applicants must demonstrate that the business has the potential to be their main source of income. Support includes access to business advisers who can assist with planning and application guidance.
Future Proofing Fund
Designed to help Welsh businesses improve energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint, the Future Proofing Fund offers grants between £5,000 and £10,000.
Eligible expenses include renewable energy technologies, systems upgrades, and building improvements that support decarbonisation goals.
To qualify, businesses must meet several criteria:
- Employ between 1 and 249 people
- Be trading since before 5 April 2023
- Operate from a premises with a rateable value between £6,001 and £51,000
- Own or lease the business property on a term extending beyond April 2026
This fund supports the broader goals of the Welsh Government’s Net Zero strategy by encouraging sustainability across all sectors.
What Regional Grants Are Available for Welsh Businesses?
In addition to nationwide schemes, several local authorities across Wales offer regional grants tailored to the specific needs of their local economies.
Bridgend Business Start-Up Fund
Aimed at new or early-stage micro-businesses, this grant provides funding for capital equipment, computer systems, website development, and minor premises upgrades.
The maximum grant is £4,000, covering up to 50% of eligible costs, and businesses must be located within Bridgend County Borough.
Bridgend Business Development Grant
Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, this grant supports established businesses seeking to diversify, decarbonise, or expand. Grants range from £5,000 to £25,000 and cover half of the total project cost.
Eligible applicants include sole traders, limited companies, co-operatives, and charities with a turnover above the VAT threshold and a trading history of more than three years.
Cardiff Academic-Industry Partnerships
Delivered through a collaboration between Cardiff University, Cardiff Metropolitan University, and the University of South Wales, this programme supports small and medium-sized businesses with access to research and academic expertise.
The goal is to enable innovation and help companies adopt new technologies and processes.
Participating businesses may receive up to £14,000 in funding, with a match funding requirement depending on business size. Sectors such as FinTech, Cyber Security, MedTech, and Creative Industries are given priority.
Caerphilly Business Start-Up Grant
Targeting entrepreneurs starting a business in Caerphilly County Borough, this grant provides up to £500 to cover 50% of project costs.
Eligible expenses include marketing, ICT, training, and building works. Applicants must present a business plan, cash flow forecasts, and quotes for all expenditure.
Are There Grants for Specific Sectors in Wales?
Yes. Many grant schemes in Wales are designed to support specific industries or types of business activity.
Innovation Grants
Business Wales offers innovation support for businesses developing new technologies, services, or products. This may include funding for intellectual property registration, feasibility studies, and commercialisation.
Tourism Grants
Visit Wales runs a number of initiatives for tourism businesses, including capital funding for weather-proofing, enhancing visitor facilities, and developing sustainable tourism infrastructure.
These grants are particularly important for rural and coastal businesses reliant on seasonal trade.
Creative Industries and Social Enterprises
Grants like the UnLtd Start Up Scale Up Awards are aimed at social entrepreneurs and creative industry founders. Funding begins at £8,000, and recipients also benefit from mentorship, training, and networking opportunities.
Cadwyn Clwyd
This rural development agency supports businesses in agriculture, crafts, food production, and tourism. It provides both financial assistance and business advice, with a focus on promoting economic resilience in rural communities.
Community Toilet Grant Scheme
A unique initiative from Gwynedd Council, this scheme provides small grants to businesses willing to make their toilet facilities available to the public. The scheme improves public amenities and indirectly boosts foot traffic to participating businesses.
How Can You Apply for a Business Grant in Wales?
Applying for a grant involves more than just filling in a form. Businesses must often present a well-prepared case showing how the funding will benefit not only their own operations but also the local economy or wider strategic goals.
Typical Application Requirements:
| Requirement | Description |
| Business Plan | A document outlining objectives, financial forecasts, and strategy |
| Quotes for Purchases | Usually two quotes per capital item |
| Evidence of Match Funding | Proof that the business can cover the remaining project costs |
| Registration Documents | Proof of business registration and ownership |
| Grant-Specific Forms | Application forms are unique to each scheme |
Each grant will specify its own eligibility criteria and required documentation. Applications are usually assessed by a panel or council department, and approval may take from several weeks to a few months.
Where Can You Find Information on New and Ongoing Grants?
The best way to stay informed is to use dedicated tools and local council websites that list available funding schemes.
| Source | Access Point |
| Business Wales | https://businesswales.gov.wales/businessfinance |
| UK Government Find a Grant | https://www.gov.uk/find-grant |
| Local Authority Websites | Council-specific business and economic development pages |
| Enterprise Hubs | Centres such as Conwy Business Centre or Caerphilly Enterprise Hub |
These resources are regularly updated and often include email alerts or newsletters to notify you of new funding rounds.
What Do You Need to Know Before Applying for a Welsh Grant?
Before applying, it’s important to consider several key factors. Many grants are competitive, and incomplete or poorly prepared applications are likely to be rejected.
Applicants should ensure they meet all the eligibility requirements and can clearly demonstrate the impact of the grant on their business.
In addition, many grants require matching funding. This means that the applicant must provide a portion of the project cost themselves, sometimes equal to or more than the grant amount.
Thorough preparation is essential. Businesses are encouraged to:
- Review and update their business plan
- Be clear about how the funds will be used
- Ensure all financial documents are accurate and current
- Avoid applying at the last minute
Are There Training Grants and Skills Support Available?
Training grants are another valuable support avenue, especially for businesses investing in workforce development or digital skills.
These grants may be available through local councils or sector-specific organisations and can cover training costs for both employees and business owners.
Eligible training can include:
- Digital literacy and e-commerce training
- Health and safety compliance
- Management and leadership development
- Industry certifications or apprenticeships
Table: Summary of Key Small Business Grants in Wales (2025)
| Grant Name | Amount | Purpose | Region |
| Young Person’s Start-Up Grant | Up to £2,000 | Support for under-25 entrepreneurs | All Wales |
| Future Proofing Fund | £5,000–£10,000 | Energy-efficient business upgrades | All Wales |
| Bridgend Development Grant | £5,000–£25,000 | Business growth, decarbonisation | Bridgend County Borough |
| Cardiff Academic Partnerships | Up to £14,000 | University-industry collaborations | Cardiff Capital Region |
| Caerphilly Start-Up Grant | Up to £500 | Startup funding for new businesses | Caerphilly Borough |
| Cadwyn Clwyd | Varies | Rural economic development and business advice | Rural North Wales |
| Visit Wales Tourism Grants | Varies | Infrastructure and weather-proofing for tourism | Coastal and rural areas |
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of business grants can small firms apply for in Wales?
There are startup, innovation, environmental, and regional development grants available, as well as industry-specific funding options.
Can a sole trader apply for business funding?
Yes, many grants in Wales are open to sole traders and micro-businesses, particularly those starting up or based in rural areas.
Is grant funding available to support training?
Yes, some grants cover training costs for employees and business owners, particularly in digital skills or compliance.
Do I need to repay Welsh business grants?
No, grants are non-repayable as long as you meet the terms of the funding agreement.
Can I apply for multiple grants at the same time?
Yes, although not all grants can be combined. Check the conditions of each scheme carefully.
Where should I go first to search for grants?
Start with the Business Wales website or your local authority’s economic development office.
What is match funding and how does it work?
Match funding means that the business must provide a portion of the project cost alongside the grant, often up to 50%.
