Bristol City Council

Vacant Commercial Property Grant Scheme

The Vacant Commercial Property Grant Scheme is designed to help reduce the number of empty commercial properties across Bristol's city centre and local high streets. Grants between £2,500 and £10,000 are available to help small businesses, sole traders, charities, Community Interest Companies (CICs), and creative and cultural groups start trading from a vacant commercial property located in Bristol's designated City Centre or one of 46 designated high streets. The grant is designed to help businesses get up and running in a new property, covering approved works and purchases needed to establish operations. It is not intended to provide ongoing financial support. To be eligible, applicants must be new to Bristol's commercial property market, returning after at least a 6-month absence, or expanding into an additional property (not relocating). Organizations must employ fewer than 50 people and have a turnover of £10.2 million or less. The core objectives of this grant are to reduce commercial vacancy rates, diversify and enhance the commercial offer in designated areas, increase footfall, create new jobs, and make Bristol a better place to live for residents. This scheme forms part of Bristol's City Centre and High Streets Renewal Programme and is funded by Bristol City Council, West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, and the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.