SWEF Enterprise Fund - Start-Up Grants

The SWEF Enterprise Fund provides start-up grants of up to £500 for young entrepreneurs in Cumbria who are launching new businesses. This funding opportunity supports individuals aged 18 to 30 who are either planning to start trading within three months or have been trading for less than two years with monthly revenue below £500. The fund aims to help young people overcome financial challenges that are preventing business development. Eligible applicants must demonstrate that their business idea has the potential to be profitable and become their sole work focus, possess relevant experience or training to succeed, and have specific plans for how grant funds will be spent. The grant can be used for business-critical expenses such as equipment, materials, stock, prototypes, website development, training, and other costs that will significantly impact business growth. All shareholders must be aged 18-30, and applicants must have or be setting up a business bank account. The fund prioritizes supporting UK-sourced goods and services and excludes certain expenses including salary, living costs, debt repayment, new electronic devices (though refurbished versions may be considered), software/app development costs for unlaunched products, and invasive beauty treatments. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, making this an accessible opportunity for young Cumbrian entrepreneurs seeking to launch or grow their early-stage businesses.