Business start up funding
It may be the case that your business requires funding. It is therefore essential that before starting up in business, you have investigated any financial support available, such as grants, loans and start-up awards.
Locating business grants
There are a number of places that can help you access business grants.
Disability employment advisers – contact Job Centre Plus
Disability employment advisers should have established networks of organisations that support people to become self employed and may also have access to grants.
Enterprise agencies
Enterprise agencies offer a wide range of support, such as information on grants, providing independent and impartial advice, or providing training and mentoring to new and emerging businesses.
National Enterprise Network - www.nfea.com
Local councils
The majority of councils have "business support tTeams" which may help with general advice, business grants and incubation premises.
Local and national charities
Charities who support the visually impaired may have funds available to help individuals to improve their financial situation.
Business Link
Business Link may have access to funds for business start up and can offer support to new and existing businesses.
Employment service providers and Job Centre Plus partners
Dependent upon the contract they hold, organisations who support people into employment may also support people into self employment. Examples of these organisations are The Shaw Trust, A4E and Working Links.
General internet search
It is possible to locate business grants by searching the Internet for terms such as, "business grants Newcastle" or "business start up grants".
Awards
Some banks, financial institutions and business start up websites grant awards for innovative business start up ideas. These can be located via a general Internet search.
Where to get help
If you need advice about self employment then please contact your local Action team and they will put you in touch with someone who can help.
Contact your local Action team
Frequently asked questions
A range of our most frequently asked questions and how Action's self employment service can help.
