At a Glance
- Tasks: Apply for grants to boost your new business and make a real impact.
- Company: Cumbria Community Foundation supporting young entrepreneurs.
- Benefits: Grants of up to £2,000 to help your business grow.
- Other info: Applications open June 2026; don't miss this chance!
- Why this job: Transform your business idea into reality with financial support.
- Qualifications: Aged 18-30, based in Cumbria, and running a business under two years.
The predicted salary is between 0 - 2000 £ per month.
Grants of up to £2,000 to young people in Cumbria who are running a new business, to help the business make a transformational change or take a significant step forward in its development.
Who can apply?
- Be aged 18 – 30 and currently live in the county of Cumbria
- Operate as a sole trader, limited company, or CIC limited by shares that has been trading for less than two years
- Be generating a minimum profit of £500 profit per month
- Be experiencing financial challenges that are limiting business development
- Be either the majority shareholder, or where applicable, all shareholders must be aged 18 to 30
- Have a business bank account or be in the process of setting one up
Your application form must show that:
- Your business idea is currently your main focus, or will become so in the near future
- The grant will be used to significantly develop the business and support progression to the next stage
- You have clear and detailed plans for how the grant will be spent, including costs and supporting evidence such as web links
Please note:
- Applications that involve ‘match funding’ or the purchase of second-hand items are particularly welcome
- Where a contribution is requested towards a single item costing more than £2,000, the grant must cover at least 25% of the total cost
- Successful applicants will receive one business grant only, which may be less than the maximum amount: repeat applications are not permitted
What the Fund will support:
- Equipment that will help achieve increased profit
- Prototypes and product development
- Building a website or booking system
- Training
- Other business costs that will make a significant impact
- Goods or services to be purchased using the grant should be sourced from UK businesses
What the Fund will not support in addition to our normal exclusions:
- Salary or living costs e.g. rent or utilities
- Debt repayment
- Ongoing software subscriptions
- New computers, phones, tablets (we can consider second-hand or refurbished versions)
- Stock, materials or other ongoing costs for existing product lines
- App development or software development costs – apps/software should be ready to launch or already launched at the point of applying to SWEF (wireframes can be considered)
- Invasive beauty treatment such as botox, aesthetics, semi-permanent makeup, facial tattoos, dermal fillers
How much can you apply for?
Grants will normally be up to £2,000.
If you would like further information about this fund please contact: Tracy Cheesbrough on 01900 825760 or email grants@cumbriafoundation.org
Business Grants for 18-30 – Cumbria Community Foundation employer: Cumbria Arts and Culture Network
Contact Detail:
Cumbria Arts and Culture Network Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Grants for 18-30 – Cumbria Community Foundation
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with other young entrepreneurs in Cumbria. Attend local events, workshops, or even online meetups. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that grant or finding support for your business.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you're pitching your business idea, make sure to convey your enthusiasm and commitment. Investors and grant providers want to see that you're all in and ready to take your business to the next level.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared with a solid plan! Before applying for the grant, have a clear strategy on how you'll use the funds. Break down your costs and show how this grant will make a real difference in your business growth.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application. Plus, keep an eye on our updates so you don’t miss the opening date in June 2026. Stay ahead of the game and get your application ready!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Grants for 18-30 – Cumbria Community Foundation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know the Fund: Before diving into your application, take a moment to really understand what the Business Grants for 18-30 is all about. Familiarise yourself with the eligibility criteria and what the fund supports. This will help you tailor your application to hit all the right notes!
Craft a Compelling Business Idea: Your business idea should shine through in your application. Make sure to clearly explain how your idea is your main focus and how the grant will help you take it to the next level. Be specific about your plans and how the funds will be used – we want to see your vision!
Be Detailed with Your Budget: When outlining how you'll spend the grant, don’t hold back on the details! Include costs and any supporting evidence, like web links. A well-thought-out budget shows us that you’re serious about making a transformational change in your business.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re following the correct process. Plus, it gives you a chance to double-check everything before hitting send!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cumbria Arts and Culture Network
✨Know Your Business Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you have a solid understanding of your business idea and how the grant will help it grow. Be ready to discuss your plans in detail, including how you’ll use the funds and the impact it will have on your business.
✨Showcase Your Financials
Prepare to present your financial situation clearly. Highlight your monthly profits and any challenges you're facing. This will demonstrate your need for the grant and your commitment to overcoming obstacles.
✨Be Ready with Evidence
Gather supporting documents that back up your application. This could include cost breakdowns, links to your website, or evidence of your business activities. Having this information at hand will show that you’re organised and serious about your application.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Run through potential interview questions with a friend or mentor. Practising your responses will help you feel more confident and articulate during the actual interview, making it easier to convey your passion and vision.