Funds up for grabs for aspiring entrepreneurs in Cumbria

6 hours ago

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Cumbrian Entrepreneurs Encouraged to Apply for Grant to Boost Business

Cumbria Community Foundation is now managing a new fund to support young entrepreneurs in Cumbria. The SWEF Enterprise Fund offers grants of up to £2,000 to those aged 18 to 30 who are running a business within its first two years of trading. Additionally, grants of up to £500 are available for those launching a new business.

The purpose of this funding is to assist young entrepreneurs with business costs that they may not be able to afford on their own. This could include purchasing equipment, materials, or stock, as well as investing in product development or building a website.

Dr Jenny Benson, Director of Programmes & Partnerships at Cumbria Community Foundation, expressed her excitement about managing this fund and the impact it will have on young entrepreneurs in the region. She stated, “We are delighted to be managing the SWEF Enterprise Fund in Cumbria and know it will make a real difference to young people starting out in business.”

Lally Holme, Grants Manager at SWEF, also shared her enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, “We are delighted to start working with Cumbria Community Foundation and are excited to see which businesses apply to SWEF.”

To be eligible for this grant, applicants must be aged 18 to 30, living in Cumbria, and facing financial challenges that are hindering the development of their business. The first round of funding closes on Friday 16 May 2025.

Interested entrepreneurs can apply for the SWEF Enterprise Fund Start-Up Grant, which offers funding of up to £500, or the SWEF Enterprise Fund Business Grant, which offers funding of up to £2,000. For more information and to apply, visit the Cumbria Community Foundation website.

Cumbria Community Foundation is a charitable organization that provides approximately £7 million in grants every year to local charities and voluntary groups. These funds are made possible by generous businesses, individuals, and families who want to support those in need in Cumbria. Those interested in setting up a fund to support the community can contact Development Manager Caroline Adams for more information.