Rural Business Support

Principally funded by the East Midlands Development Agency via the Leicestershire Economic Partnership, Leicestershire County Council's rural business support programme offers a wide range of grants:

Farmers' Business Development Grant: Farmers can apply for grants of up to £5,000 to assist them to act upon ideas to diversify, add value or develop environmental schemes, as well as help with identification of training needs and skills development.

New Life for Redundant Buildings Initiative: Owners of redundant buildings in rural Leicestershire can obtain advice and financial support of up to £15,000 to help introduction new economic uses into redundant buildings across Leicestershire such as farm shops, craft workshops, holiday accommodation, office premises or manufacturing units.

Rural Micro Business Development Grant: New and existing rural businesses who want to develop through improvements based on productivity, profitability, and the knowledge/skills base of employees can apply for grants up to £3,000. Sectors eligible include food & drink, social enterprise, creative industries, and equestrian based businesses.

Rural Visitor Grant Scheme: Tourism businesses in Leicestershire can apply for grants of up to £5,000 to raise the quality and accessibility of their product and enhance the overall visitor experience. Sectors eligible include accommodation, attractions, leisure, food & drink, retail and culture.

For further information on the grants please click on the links above.

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To down load an application form or apply on-line click on the links below.