Financial support for business start-ups
Find out about the types of financial support that could be available to you when starting your own business.
You will need to research how much you will need to start your business, and if (and when) you will need finance throughout the first three years of your business.
For more information on where to go for finance, please book an appointment with one of our experienced business advisors.
Financial support from the University
Proof of Concept fund
A small, discretionary Poof of Concept fund may be available to University of Leeds students. These funds are subject to availability.
Applications for this fund are only considered if you have attended a meeting with a Spark business advisor.
Enterprise Scholarships
The University’s Enterprise Scholarships scheme is a fantastic opportunity to develop your fledgling business skills in a supportive environment. Successful candidates gain access to training, business mentors, co-working spaces and a substantial grant to help with start-up costs.
Leeds City Region Ad:Venture programme
Ad:Venture can provide ambitious new businesses in West Yorkshire with a tailored programme of support to help to them grow.
Ad:Venture growth grants of between £1,500 to £10,000 are available for businesses that meet specific criteria. To see if your business is eligible for the growth grant, visit the Ad:Venture website.
For more information about Ad:Venture, email Tony Armson at tony.armson@leeds.gov.uk, call Tony on +44(0)113 37 87873 or +44(0)7891270689.
Financial support from other sources
Debt finance
Debt finance can come from a variety of sources, including:
- Bank loan/overdrafts
- Factoring
- Loans from a funding body, such as the Business Enterprise Fund, Funding Circle, IWOCA
- Government funding
- Leasing and hire purchase (normally for capital equipment)
- Family and friends
Equity
Equity funding can come from a variety of sources, including:
- Business Angels – see the UK Business Angels Association website
- Crowd funding – see the UK Crowdfunding Association website
- Venture capitalists