What is the Business Support?
Rutland businesses are set to unlock new growth and innovation opportunities, thanks to a ground-breaking partnership with leading regional universities.
This project has received £91,552 from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Eligible businesses in Rutland will be invited to participate in a series of initiatives, including workshops, funding schemes, and innovation-driven projects. A series of events across Rutland will introduce local businesses to the opportunities available through RIBS, including innovation vouchers, start-up support, sustainability audits, and access to funding.
Other events will be held across key business sites, including Uppingham and Oakham, please look out for more information.
What could it do for your company?
The RIBS project leverages the collective strengths of the three universities to offer Rutland-based entrepreneurs and businesses unprecedented access to expertise, innovation support, specialist equipment, and facilities. With a proven track record of regional, national, and international business support, the universities will assist businesses in scaling through innovation and create collaborative partnerships that benefit the local economy.
Who runs it?
Rutland County Council has launched the new Rutland Innovative Businesses Support (RIBS) project, spearheaded by Loughborough University (LU) on behalf of the Civic Universities Partnership with De Montfort University (DMU) and University of Leicester (UoL). This project is set to bolster the growth of Rutland's businesses.
How to find out more?
To find out more information click here.
What is the grant available for?
Also, as part of the project, businesses are invited to submit their Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the University Innovation Voucher and the Capital Grant Scheme which will run from October 2024 to March 2025.
The University Innovation Voucher is a fully funded scheme which will enable eligible Rutland SMEs to collaborate with one of the partner universities. The scheme offers access to expert knowledge, specialist facilities, and R&D opportunities, helping businesses with everything from prototyping to sustainability audits.
The Capital Grant Scheme will offer a match-funded capital grant, providing businesses with funding to purchase equipment or technology that promotes innovation. Applicants will need to provide 50% match funding and demonstrate how their projects will drive growth and innovation.
Percentage of project cost
Applicants will need to provide 50% match funding and demonstrate how their projects will drive growth and innovation.
What grant amounts are available?
Ten vouchers, valued up to £3,500 each, will be awarded to successful applicants.
How to apply for the grant?
Businesses are encouraged to participate as soon as possible, as the scheme runs only until March 2025. You will need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). Once submitted, the universities will review the EOI, contact the business to discuss their needs, and identify the best support options, such as the voucher scheme or grant support. If the project is suitable, business will be guided through the full application process.
Contact information:
Rutland County council
