Objective 1

To raise and support growth aspirations of rural micro businesses

Please note that the Small Business Growth Grant Scheme has now closed to new applications

Objective 1.1 - To stimulate growth in micro businesses
Description Helping micro businesses to grow, demonstrated by increased profit. This will operate as a Business Growth small grants fund open to individual businesses.
Examples of project activities that are eligible Investment in new capital equipment, premises, staffing, new technology or marketing to support new products, services or activities.
Projects are more likely to be funded if they demonstrate that they: • Can demonstrate business growth
• Have a positive or neutral impact on the environment
Objective 1.2 - To support business development projects
Description Addressing barriers to business growth and development. Addressing gaps in business support across the Leader 4 area.
Examples of project activities that are eligible

Developing business networks; joint business activity; customised business support; promotion of new technologies and ideas.

Projects are more likely to be funded if they demonstrate that they:

• Have evidence of business need and demand
• Distribute benefit around the entire Leader 4 area
• Fill an identified gap

Objective 1.3 - To increase workforce skills levels
Description Supporting innovative training and mentoring to fill the identified skills gaps in the business/voluntary sectors.
Examples of project activities that are eligible

New ways of reaching hard to reach groups and sectors.
Increase higher level and technological skills.
Improve access to the labour market.

Projects are more likely to be funded if they demonstrate that they:

• Meet an identified skills gap
• Target a priority population group or business sector
• Address barriers to training
• Promote equal opportunities