Getting funding for your business isn't always simple, but if you're based in the UK, there are government-backed grants that can give you a serious boost. Whether you're launching a startup or scaling up your operations, these grants can help you cover costs like equipment, marketing, and hiring.

The UK offers several opportunities worth exploring, from nationwide programs to region-specific support. In this article, we’ll walk you through six UK government grants that could help fund your business in 2025, plus how to know if you qualify.

Innovate UK Smart Grants

If you're working on a game-changing idea in science, tech, or engineering, the Innovate UK Smart Grant could help bring it to reality. This grant supports ambitious projects that have the potential to grow the UK economy and create a real-world impact.

What it offers

To fund innovative R&D projects that are early-stage but have strong potential. Think of products, processes, or services that are new or improved, and could solve real problems.

Funding amount

• Projects can get up to £2 million in funding.
• Funding covers part of the project cost. You’ll need to co-fund the rest, depending on your business size.

Who’s eligible

• UK-based companies of any size, including startups
• You must carry out your project in the UK
• You can work alone or with partners (like universities or other businesses)

Things to know

• Your idea must be commercially viable and clearly show potential for future growth.
• Applications are judged based on innovation, impact, and value for money.
• Competitions for this grant run throughout the year.
• And if you’re now ready to enter the international market, especially to the US, fintech companies like Adro can help you register your LLC in the US or open a US checking account, savings account, and credit card for your business.

Better Business Finance

Looking for a simpler way to find funding? The Better Business Finance platform is designed to make your search easier.

What it offers

• Connects you to lenders who can provide up to £20 million in finance.
• You’ll find options like loans, asset finance, invoice finance, and commercial mortgages, all in one place.

Who can apply

• UK-based businesses of any size, from solo operators to mid-sized companies.
• It's beneficial if you have already tried a bank and need more options.

Key benefits

• Works like a “finance compare tool.” Fill in your details and get matched with lenders anonymously.
• No hard credit checks when searching, and you can appeal if you’re declined.
• Completely free. It's run by the British Business Bank and backed by the government.

Things to keep in mind

• It’s a business finance portal, not a direct grant. You’ll still need to secure financing through lenders.
• Make sure your application fits the lender’s requirements, focus on your loan needs, and repayment plan

Innovate UK Business Growth

If you're serious about scaling up your innovation-driven business to international markets, Innovate UK Business Growth (formerly Innovate UK EDGE) could be the support system you’ve been looking for.

What it offers

• Fully funded, bespoke support tailored to your needs, from refining innovation and IP strategy to accessing growth capital and entering new markets.
• A special Scaleup Programme for high-growth companies aiming for over 50% annual growth, led by a Scaleup Director and an expert board.

Who can apply

• Established, innovation-led UK businesses with 0–249 employees across any sector.
• Open to all high-potential SMEs, including past Innovate UK grant recipients.

Key benefits

• Actionable advice from dedicated innovation & growth specialists based near you.
• Funding connections and investment readiness to prepare you for capital raises.
• Launch in the UK or abroad using new networks and strategic insights.

Things to know

• Your journey starts with a simple enquiry. If accepted, you’ll be paired with a local specialist for a tailored growth strategy.
• For scaling businesses, the Scaleup Programme offers deeper, board-level guidance, but admission is selective.

Disclaimer: The next three grants are location-specific. You must operate or plan to operate in the listed regions of the UK to qualify.

Invest to Grow (East Midlands)

Looking to turbocharge your growth with significant funding? Invest to Grow offers a powerful blend of grants and loans to help businesses across the East Midlands expand, innovate, and create new jobs.

What it offers

Grants and low-interest loans between £15,000 and £250,000, often given as a mix of both.

Who’s eligible

• Established and new UK companies, sole traders, and partnerships
• Projects must be based, operate, and hire within the East Midlands, including parts of Staffordshire and South Yorkshire.
• Sectors supported: manufacturing, life sciences, engineering, logistics, tech, creative, low-carbon, construction.
• Not eligible: B2C retailers, agriculture, professional services, or stock/vehicle purchases.

Key criteria

• Your project must cost at least £50,000 and must include private sector match funding (typically 70–80%).
• Must create or safeguard skilled jobs lasting 3+ years (5+ years for larger firms) – typically one job per £10,000 funded.
• Funding applies only if your activities haven’t started, and work can't begin before official approval.

Things to know

• The application starts with an Expression of Interest (EOI). If that passes, you’ll move on to a full application and due diligence.
• Expect a timeline of 3–6 months from EOI to funding.
• Fund managers will guide you through eligibility, funding mix, and compliance checks. This fund is managed by the University of Derby

AD:VENTURE Business Growth Grant (West Yorkshire)

If you're a young business in West Yorkshire and need help growing, the AD:VENTURE Business Growth Grant is for you. It provides partial funding to help upgrade your operations or boost your marketing.

What it offers

Grants of £1,500 to £10,000, covering up to 50% of eligible project costs — so your business needs to match the amount applied for .

Who’s eligible

• Businesses established for less than 3 years and operating within the Leeds City Region (including Leeds, Bradford, Wakefield, Calderdale, Kirklees) .
• Good for startups looking to invest in marketing, tech, or workspace upgrades.

What it covers

• Eligible expenses include:
• Digital tools and website upgrades
• Marketing and branding materials
• Office or studio equipment

Things to know

• Projects must offer clear improvements, such as better tech, stronger branding, or smoother production.
• You need 50% match funding. For example, for a £10,000 project, you'll contribute £5,000 .
• Usually includes support sessions or workshops to help you make the most of your investment.

Mansfield Business Start-Up Grant

If you're just starting your entrepreneurial journey in the Mansfield area, the Mansfield Business Start-Up Grant is a great way to cover your early expenses and get off to a strong start.

What it offers

• A one-off grant of up to £2,500 to support your new venture.
• Ideal for businesses needing help with setup costs.

Who’s eligible

• New start-ups based within the Mansfield district.
• Designed to support entrepreneurs in their very first year of trading.

What it covers

• Essential equipment or fixtures needed to run your business.
• Marketing and promotional materials to reach customers.
• Furniture or fittings for your workspace or shop.

Things to know

• The grant budget is limited. Once it’s gone, applications close.
• It’s designed for practical, one-time costs to help you launch, not for operational running costs.

Helpful Tips

Getting the opportunity to receive one of these grants can be just what you need to jumpstart your business into the next level and possibly expand your business globally. 

But you still have to take note of these tips, so when you’re searching for the right grant for your business, you’ll save yourself the pain and hassle and get that sweet approval.

Review the grant eligibility carefully

If you're close but don't quite meet the requirements, it can still be worth contacting the organization, as sometimes, if they don't have enough eligible applicants, they may make exceptions. And it helps to be friendly, polite, and professional when asking for exceptions from the program administrators

Check application deadlines

If a program is closed for applications, check if it's closed permanently or if it's temporary and will be reopening in the future. You can bookmark the page to check back frequently or set a calendar reminder. It could also be good to contact the organization to see if they can provide any insight into when the program may reopen again

Refer to other founders

Ask other startup founders and business owners in your network if they are aware of other grants and programs you should apply to. You can never have too many applications, as this increases the chance of you getting approved.

Final Thoughts

Whether launching a startup or scaling an existing business, the UK offers many grant opportunities to support your growth. 

From nationwide programs like Innovate UK to local options in places like Mansfield and West Yorkshire, there's likely something out there for you, no matter your stage or location. Just remember, check the eligibility, prepare strong documents, and apply early.