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 up to £2,000 to help transform your business.
- Other info: Applications open June 2026; don't miss this chance!
- Why this job: Get financial support to take your business to the next level.
- Qualifications: Aged 18-30, based in Cumbria, and running a new business.
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.
Business Grants for 18-30 – Cumbria Community Foundation in England employer: Cumbria Arts and Culture Network
Cumbria Community Foundation is an exceptional employer dedicated to empowering young entrepreneurs in the region. With a strong focus on community development, we foster a supportive work culture that encourages innovation and collaboration, while providing ample opportunities for professional growth. Our commitment to making a meaningful impact in Cumbria makes us a rewarding place to work for those passionate about supporting local businesses.
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 in England
✨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, let your enthusiasm shine through. Make sure to explain how the grant will help you take your business to the next level. We want to see your vision and how committed you are to making it happen!
✨Tip Number 3
Get your finances in order! Before applying, make sure you have a clear understanding of your business's financials. Show that you're generating profit and have a solid plan for how you'll use the grant money. This will boost your credibility and make your application stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re here to help if you have any questions along the way. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get your business off the ground!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Grants for 18-30 – Cumbria Community Foundation in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know the Fund:Before diving into your application, take a moment to really understand what the fund 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 the grant will help you make a transformational change or significant step forward. We want to see your passion and vision for your business!
Be Detailed with Your Plans:When outlining how you’ll use the grant, be as detailed as possible. Include specific costs and any supporting evidence, like web links. The clearer you are, the better we can understand how the grant will benefit your business.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget 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 keeps everything nice and organised on our end!
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 development.
✨Showcase Your Financials
Prepare to present your financial situation clearly. Highlight your current profits and any challenges you're facing. This will demonstrate your need for the grant and your ability to manage the funds effectively.
✨Be Ready with Evidence
Gather supporting evidence for your application, such as cost breakdowns and links to relevant resources. This will help you back up your claims during the interview and show that you’ve done your homework.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to practice your responses. Focus on articulating your vision and how the grant will facilitate significant changes in your business. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform!
