RURAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT GRANTS OF UP TO £4,999
The Programme will be open for applications as follows:
- Opening: Wed 16th October 2024
- Pre-Application Workshops: 23rd October, 30th October & 5th November
- Closing: Fri 8th November 2024 at 12 noon
The Rural Business Development Grant Scheme aims to support the sustainability and growth opportunities of rural micro-businesses across Northern Ireland by providing a small capital grant for the business. This grant scheme, funded by the Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs (DAERA), is administered and managed by Derry City & Strabane District Council.
Important to note:
- Maximum total cost is £20,000 and maximum grant request is £4,999 at 50% funded. The maximum total cost of £20,000 is net if you are VAT registered and gross if you are not VAT registered.
- Your project cannot commence until a Letter of Offer is released (anticipated by 10 January 2025). Projects which have already commenced are ineligible for funding.
- Projects must be completed by 14 March 2025 to include project items purchased are onsite and operational, and paid and cleared your nominated bank account by this date.
- You are encouraged to submit your application well in advance of the closing date / time to avoid technical difficulties which could result in deeming your application ineligible.
- You are required to provide the remaining match funding for the project.
- Applicants must also attend a Pre-Application Workshop.
Register for Pre-Application Workshop
Details on Guidance Notes, Terms & Conditions and Application Form
What can I apply for?
Grant aid is available for a range of capital items including:
- Computer equipment and software
- E-commerce websites
- New equipment/ machinery
- Mobile machinery, such as scissor lifts, forklifts, ride-on lawn mowers. Further details on what is eligible and not eligible is available in the DAERA Guidance notes
Is my Business Located in a Rural Area?
Businesses must be based in a rural area within the Derry City and Strabane District Council. A rural area is defined as an area with a population of less than 5,000 residents. Culmore, Drumahoe, Nixons Corner, Coshquinn, Newbuildings and Strathfoyle are defined as rural and are eligible for this programme. If you’re unsure if your business location is eligible, email [email protected] or telephone 02871 253 253 and ask to speak to a Business Advisor.
How do I apply?
This is an online application process. Your application and supporting documents must be submitted and uploaded by 12noon on Friday 8th November 2024. The online system closes at this date and time and therefore no late applications will be accepted. It is recommended that you register, complete and submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Please note your project cannot commence until you receive a formal letter of offer of funding.
Mandatory Pre-Application Workshops
Pre-application workshops will be taking place on the following days:
- Wednesday 23rd October 2024 Online via Teams at 6pm (this has now been delivered)
- Wednesday 30th October 2024 In-Person in Strabane at 1pm
- Tuesday 5th November 2024 Online via Teams at 1pm
Key learning outcomes: Join Catherine Collins from the Business Support team in Derry City and Strabane District Council to learn more about the eligibility criteria and tips on what makes a strong application.
How can I find out about the Grant funding?
To find out more about the scheme, the application, assessment and claims process, you should read the application guidance notes.
Do you require support with your application?
Should you require any further assistance please direct your query to [email protected] and a member of the team will be in touch.