Deadline Date: May 21, 2026
The Graduate Placement Grant scheme is inviting applications to support small and medium-sized enterprises in the Caithness and North Sutherland area by funding graduate employment, prioritizing businesses in growth sectors and addressing local skills gaps.
The scheme focuses on supporting businesses to cover up to 70% of graduate salary costs over a two-year period, with preference given to placements in energy, food and drink, space, and tourism sectors. The funding also aligns with growth-oriented businesses seeking to expand operations, enhance workforce skills, and create employment opportunities.
Eligible applicants must be small to medium enterprises, including sole traders, partnerships, or limited companies, demonstrating financial viability and owner investment. Funding up to £24,500 over three years is available, depending on the business’s specific needs and capacity to generate growth and additionality. Lifestyle or hobby businesses without scalability are not eligible. Certain sectors are excluded, including alcohol, environmentally harmful activities, financial services, gambling, morally or ethically controversial activities, primary agriculture, property development, and weapons.
The grant enables businesses to attract and retain talented graduates, strengthen skills in critical areas, and contribute to regional economic development while supporting sustainable business growth. Capital equipment is considered only if it directly contributes to business expansion or additional impact. Applicants must clearly show how the placement will create meaningful outcomes for the business and the local workforce.
For more information, visit Caithness Business Fund.
