Top government grants and funding schemes for UK businesses this autumn

The nights are drawing in, the holidays are on the horizon, and for many, it’s the perfect moment to plan for the year ahead. But if you’re thinking about growth, innovation, or even just keeping the lights on through winter, funding can be a challenge. The good news for many businesses is that the UK government is set to distribute billions in grants and funding schemes this autumn. That means there's money available that doesn’t need to be repaid, if you know where to look and how to apply.

The most recent government data shows that in 2022-23, registered companies received 47% of all government grants, equating to around £143 billion. Yet many businesses miss out simply because they don’t know where to start or feel overwhelmed by the application process.

Perhaps you’ve heard about Innovate UK or local council grants but aren’t sure if you qualify. Or perhaps you’ve started an application only to get stuck on the paperwork. Whatever your situation, this guide is here to help.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the top grants and schemes open for applications this autumn, explain how to apply, and highlight the key mistakes to avoid. You’ll also find answers to the most common questions, so you can move forward with confidence.

Key points:

• Grants and other funding schemes for UK businesses help bridge funding gaps and fuel growth without the burden of paying them back

• Your business could secure tens of hundreds of thousands of pounds if you meet certain eligibility criteria

• Funding Options by Tide can help when optimisation of working capital isn’t enough, offering access to business finance up to £20 million

Why is autumn a good time to consider business grants and funding schemes?

Autumn is one of the best times of year to apply for business grants and funding because the UK government, along with local authorities and funding bodies, tends to launch new schemes and refresh existing ones as the financial year winds down. So if you’ve been putting off applying for funding, now’s a good time to act.

The autumn budget often introduces new grants, tax reliefs, and loan schemes. Sectors like R&D, green technologies, construction, and digital transformation often see extra funding, with easier eligibility or bigger incentives. For startups and SMEs, this can be an exciting time of year – especially if your business is focused on sustainability or innovation. Applying now means you’re more likely to find a scheme that fits your goals and stands out in the process.

Autumn is also when businesses plan ahead for the new year – whether that’s hiring, investing in equipment, or preparing for the winter holiday rush. Securing funding now can ease cash flow, cover new costs, and set you up for success in 2026. And with programmes like the British Business Bank’s expanded loans and guarantees often launching this season, there’s even more support for high-growth and female-led businesses. So don’t wait… exploring grants and funding now could give your business the head start it needs before winter.

Top funding schemes and government grants for UK businesses (September 2025)

There are a lot of funding schemes and grants out there. To make finding the right one for your business simpler, we’ve curated a list of some of the best schemes open for applications this autumn. Each one’s tailored to different needs, so whether you’re a startup, a growing SME, or an established business, there should be a suitable option for you.

Start Up Loans

If you’re just starting out, Start Up Loans could be the perfect way to get your business off the ground. Backed by the government, these loans offer affordable, fixed-rate funding alongside free mentoring and support. Unlike grants, you’ll need to repay the loan, but the terms are designed to be startup-friendly, with no hidden fees or early repayment penalties.

• Who it’s for: New businesses (trading for less than 36 months) or aspiring entrepreneurs

• Amount available: £500-£25,000 per founder, with a fixed interest rate of 6% per year

• Deadline: Ongoing – you can apply at any time

• Eligibility: You’ll need to be UK-based, over 18, and have a viable business plan. Some sectors (eg gambling and property investment) are excluded

• How to apply: See small business loans.

Tip: As well as money, Start Up Loans offer free business support and mentoring, which can be invaluable in your first few years.

Innovate UK grants

If your business is working on something truly innovative, Innovate UK grants are some of the most prestigious and generous funding options out there. These grants support cutting-edge projects in science, technology, and research.

• Who it’s for: Businesses with innovative projects in science, tech, or R&D

• Amount available: Up to £1 million+, depending on the competition. Most SMEs apply for £25,000-£100,000

• Deadline: Varies by competition – check the Innovate UK funding finder

• Eligibility: Open to UK-based businesses of all sizes, but SMEs often get higher funding rates (up to 70% of eligible project costs)

• How to apply: Start by finding the right competition on the Innovate UK website

Tip: Innovate UK is highly competitive, so your application needs to stand out. Focus on what makes your project unique and how it will deliver real-world impact.

UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF)

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) is a £2.6 billion government programme designed to support local businesses, communities, and people across the UK. It’s all about leveling up – helping businesses in areas that need it most. The fund is managed by local authorities, so the exact opportunities depend on where your business is based.

• Who it’s for: Businesses in targeted local areas, particularly those focused on skills training, innovation, or community projects

• Amount available: Varies by region, but grants often range from tens of thousands to several hundred thousand pounds

• Deadline: Varies by local authority – check with your council’s UKSPF page

• Eligibility: Open to businesses, charities, and social enterprises in priority areas. Your project will need to align with local goals, such as job creation, skills development, or high street revival

• How to apply: Contact your local council or visit their website for details on how to apply

Tip: UKSPF is highly localised, so the opportunities and competition will vary. Get in touch with your council early to find out what’s available in your area.

Regional Growth Grants

If you’re looking to expand, innovate, or create jobs, Regional Growth Grants could help. These grants are offered by local enterprise partnerships (LEPs), devolved governments, and councils, and they’re designed to boost economic growth in specific regions. The exact schemes vary, but they often focus on SMEs, startups, and businesses in key sectors like manufacturing, tech, or green energy.

• Who it’s for: SMEs and startups in specific UK regions (eg West Midlands, North East, Scotland, Wales)

• Amount available: Typically £10,000-£100,000 but some larger projects may qualify for more

• Deadline: Varies by region – check your local LEP or council website

• Eligibility: Requirements vary but are usually open to businesses trading for at least 12 months and focused on job creation, innovation, or export growth

• How to apply: Search for ‘regional growth grants’ on your local authority’s website

Tip: These grants are often underused, so your chances of success could be higher than with national schemes. Don’t assume you won’t qualify – check what’s available in your area.

R&D tax credits

R&D tax credits are one of the most valuable funding options for businesses that innovate. If your company spends money on eligible research and development activities, you could claim back a tax credit roughly equivalent to 15-16% of your qualifying costs through tax relief. Loss-making, R&D-intensive SMEs may qualify for a more generous credit of up to around 27%. You can invest this money straight back into your business.

• Who it’s for: Businesses developing new or improved products, processes, or services (even if the project fails)

• Amount available: Typically about 15-16% of your qualifying R&D expenditure under the main scheme, with up to 27% for loss-making R&D-intensive SMEs

• Deadline: Claims are made through your corporation tax return and must be submitted within six months of the end of your accounting period

• Eligibility: Open to UK limited companies paying Corporation Tax, including SMEs and larger companies. Projects must aim to advance science or technology

• How to apply: Work with an accountant or use HMRC’s R&D tax relief guidance

Tip: Many businesses miss out on R&D tax credits because they don’t realise they qualify. If you’re unsure, speak to an accountant who can help you identify eligible projects.

How to apply successfully

Applying for funding can often feel complicated, but it doesn’t have to. Follow these steps to give yourself the best chance of success.

First, check your eligibility. This might sound obvious, but many businesses get caught out applying for grants they don’t qualify for. So read the criteria carefully – some schemes are only open to businesses in certain sectors, regions, or stages of growth, for example. If you’re not sure, ask the scheme provider. They’d rather you check than submit an ineligible application.

Next, gather your documents. Most grants will ask for:

• A business plan (even a short one)

• Financial statements (Profit & Loss report, Balance Sheet)

• Project details (what you’ll use the money for and why it matters)

• Proof of match funding (if required)

If you need help with your business plan or financials, read How to obtain a small business loan for tips on preparing your documents.

Then, write a strong proposal. This is where many applications fall down. Your proposal needs to clearly explain:

• What your project is

• Why it’s innovative or valuable

• How the grant will help you achieve your goals

• What the wider benefits are (eg job creation or environmental impact)

Try to avoid jargon, and make sure your proposal aligns with the grant’s objectives. For example, if the scheme is about reducing carbon emissions, explain how it'll cut energy use or waste.

Finally, submit early and follow up. Grant providers can get swamped with last-minute applications, so submitting a few days before the deadline can help your application stand out. And if you don’t hear back within the expected timeframe, don’t be afraid to chase them up.

Common mistakes to avoid (and how to fix them)

Even the best-laid plans can go wrong if you fall into these common traps. Here’s what to watch out for and how to avoid them.

• Not tailoring your proposal: Sending the same application to multiple grants may sound efficient but it’s not effective. Each scheme has different goals, so customise your proposal to match what they’re looking for

• Underestimating match funding: Many grants require you to cover part of the cost yourself. If you apply for a £30,000 grant but don’t have the £15,000 match funding ready, your application will likely be rejected. So plan ahead and make sure you’ve got the funds in place

• Missing the deadline: It sounds simple, but it’s easy to lose track of time when you’re juggling a business. Set a reminder a week or two before the deadline, so you’ve got time to sort out any last-minute issues

• Ignoring local or niche schemes: National grants get a lot of attention, but local and sector-specific schemes often have less competition and could be your best shot at funding

• Forgetting about reporting requirements: If you’re lucky enough to secure funding, you’ll need to report on how you’ve used the money. This might involve providing quarterly updates, receipts, or even hosting site visits

Alternatives to government grants and funding schemes

Grants and funding schemes are fantastic, but they’re not the only way to fund your business. Depending on your needs, you might want to explore other options – either instead of government schemes or alongside them.

• Government-backed loans: Schemes like the Growth Guarantee Scheme offer loans with attractive terms, such as lower interest rates or longer repayment periods. These could be a good option if you need a larger amount of money or want more flexibility than a grant offers

• Equity finance: If you’re a high-growth business, selling a stake in your company using equity finance could bring in major funding. Investors often bring expertise and connections as well as money, which can be invaluable for scaling up

• Crowdfunding: Platforms like Crowdcube and Republic let you raise money from the public in exchange for rewards or equity. It’s a great way to validate your idea and build a customer base at the same time

Find business finance with Funding Options by Tide

Whether you’re looking for a standard business loan, a short-term business loan, or something a little more specialist, like auction finance for property developers, we’re one of the leading names in business finance in the UK, having helped facilitate over £1 billion in finance to more than 20,000 customers.

Checking if you’re eligible is free, only takes a few minutes, and while a full application would impact your personal or business credit score, checking eligibility won’t. Just submit your details via the link below to find out if you could be eligible to borrow up to £20 million.

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FAQs

Can I apply for multiple grants at once?

Yes, you can apply for multiple grants, but check the rules first. Some schemes don’t allow you to use their funding for the same project as another grant. If you’re applying for several grants, make sure each one is for a different part of your business – eg one for equipment and another for marketing.

How long does it take to receive the funds?

This varies, but most grants take 4-12 weeks from application to payout. Some local schemes might be faster, while larger grants (like Innovate UK) can take longer due to the volume of applications. Always check the expected timeline before you apply, so you can plan accordingly.

Do I need to repay a grant?

Grants don’t need to be repaid. But you'll need to meet the scheme’s requirements, such as reporting on how you’ve used the money or hitting certain milestones. If you don’t, you might have to pay the grant back.

Are grants taxable?

Generally, no. Grants aren’t considered taxable income, but you should check with HMRC or an accountant to be sure, especially if the grant is for a specific type of project.

Can I use a grant to cover salaries?

It depends on the scheme. Innovate UK grants often allow salary costs for staff working on the project, while local council grants might not. Always check the guidelines before you apply.

What happens if my application is rejected?

Don’t be disheartened if your application’s rejected – many businesses secure funding on their second or third attempt. If you’re rejected, ask for feedback and use it to improve your next application. You can also look at alternative funding options, like business loans or equity finance.

Can I appeal a decision?

Most grant schemes don’t allow appeals, but you can ask for feedback to understand why you were rejected and use this to strengthen future applications.

Please note that the information above is not intended to be financial advice. You should seek independent financial advice before making any decisions about your financial future.

It’s important to remember that all loans and credit agreements come with risks. These risks include non-payment and late-payment of the agreed repayment plan, which could affect your business credit score and impact your ability to find future funding. Always read the terms and conditions of every loan or credit agreement before you proceed. Contact us for support if you ever face difficulties making your repayments.

Funding Options, now part of Tide, helps UK firms access business finance, working directly with businesses and their trusted advisors. Funding Options are a credit broker and do not provide loans directly. All finance and quotes are subject to status and income. Applicants must be aged 18 and over and terms and conditions apply. Guarantees and Indemnities may be required. Funding Options can introduce applicants to a number of providers based on the applicants' circumstances and creditworthiness. Funding Options will receive a commission or finder’s fee for effecting such finance introductions.