SPARK financial support

Where do I find the money to start my business?

 

The first thing to consider is how much you need to start your business. Secondly you will need to consider if you will need finance throughout your first 3 years and when? Therefore, your research and business planning are critically important.

 

Finance comes in many forms

 

Debt Finance

  • Bank loan/Overdraft (Santander, Natwest, RBS, HSBC, Barclays, Lloyds…)
  • Factoring
  • Funding body loan (Business Enterprise Fund, Funding Circle, IWOCA…)
  • Government (https://www.gov.uk/business/finance-support)
  • Leasing and hire purchase (Normally for capital equipment)
  • Family & Friends

Grants

  • Proof of Concept fund (see below)
  • Government (see below)
  • Local Authority

Equity

Who should I talk to now?

For more details on how to prepare and where to go for finance please book an appointment with one of our experienced business advisors.

Email: spark@leeds.ac.uk

Proof of Concept Fund

On occasion, a small discretionary fund may be available to University of Leeds students. 

Applications are only considered if you have attended a meeting with a Spark Business Advisor. To arrange a Business Advisor appointment please click here.

Please note: These funds are subject to availability.

AD:VENTURE

Leeds City Region & West Yorkshire funding and support administered by local authority.

Growth Grant 

  • 0-3Yrs Trading
  • B2B
  • Leeds City Region
  • The grant award will cover up to 50% of total project costs and requires businesses to provide a minimum of 50% of match funding.
  • Growth Grants are available from £1,500 to £10,000.

For more info please visit: https://www.ad-venture.org.uk/                      

Leeds City Region Ad:Venture Programme

Tel: 0113 37 87873 / 07891270689
Email: Tony.armson@leeds.gov.uk