Deadline: October 31, 2025
The Ashford Rural Boost Grant offers financial support of £500 to £3,000 for commercial businesses in rural areas of the Ashford Borough to enhance productivity, operational processes, and growth.
The grant focuses on supporting projects in commercial premises located in designated rural areas as defined under the Rural England Prosperity Fund by Defra, targeting food and drink production businesses as well as those in hospitality and tourism sectors. It aims to improve productivity, operational processes, business viability, and growth through capital projects, including purchase and installation of buildings, equipment, signage, IT, and EPOS systems. The grant cannot be combined with the Ashford Rural Investment Grant but may be used alongside other financial support schemes, except funding from Defra. Projects may require planning permission, and all works must comply with relevant legislation, regulations, and the REPF/UKSPF guidelines.
The Ashford Rural Boost Grant is designed for micro, small, and medium commercial enterprises registered in the Ashford Borough. Eligible businesses must demonstrate the need for the proposed works and the expected benefits for their operations. The grant specifically supports capital projects that improve business infrastructure, productivity, and growth, such as installing new commercial ovens, signage, or IT systems.
Applicants must provide fully costed quotes for their projects, with the council covering 80% of costs excluding VAT. Grants range from a minimum of £500 to a maximum of £3,000, with higher amounts considered in exceptional circumstances supported by strong evidence. Applications must include proof of property ownership or consent, evidence of funding for the applicant’s share, recent site photos, and details of any other grants received in the past three years. Projects costing over £3,123 require three quotes, while those below this threshold require one.
Successful applicants will receive funding once all conditions are met, including the approval of planning permissions where required. The council may monitor the project’s progress and reserves the right to reclaim funds if conditions are not fulfilled within a reasonable time. Applicants must also provide quarterly progress reports and comply with all relevant REPF and UKSPF branding guidelines. Failure to maintain the equipment, remove materials, or obtain permissions may result in repayment of the grant within 12 months.
The Ashford Rural Boost Grant provides a valuable opportunity for rural businesses to strengthen their operations, enhance productivity, and support sustainable growth within the borough.
For more information, visit Ashford Borough Council.
