HIE Lochaber can give financial assistance to help businesses expand and develop.
What is it for?
To help your business:
- buy and install equipment
- to improve efficiency / productivity
- build commercial property
- improve existing / services tourism accommodation with more than 5 letting rooms
- improve visitor attractions
- upgrade fishing boats
- market products and services
- research and develop new products and markets
- sell online (e-commerce) key sectors are manufacturing and production, food and drink and information communication technology.
Who can apply?
Any business based in the Lochaber area.
How much will I get?
In recent years, our average grant has been 20% of eligible costs. Our assistance is discretionary. In rural areas the grant may be higher, while within the Fort William area it might be lower. One of our managers will give you an early indication of the likely level of grant assisitance.
What are the criteria for grant assistance?
- minimum grant level of £5000 i.e. project costs of £25,000 (less in fragile areas*)
- viability of business proposal
- the project must not have any negative effect on other business (displacement)
- you must be able to demonstrate why you need grant funding (additionality)
How do I apply?
Phone us and meet with one of our development managers before you proceed with anything or order anything.
Note: We cannot help you if you have already bought the equipment or started working on your project.
What do I need to do?
- write down what your plans are
- give us quotes for what you want to do
- show us where the remainder of the money will come from
How long does it take?
The sooner you have the information to us, the quicker we can give you an answer.
What next?
Contact us with details of your project
*Fragile areas are defined as Ardnamurchan, Morvern, The Small Isles and Knoydart
