Deadline: October 22, 2025
Caithness Business Fund is offering financial support to drive economic growth across Caithness and Sutherland by backing local businesses and fostering skills development.
The focus is to strengthen the region’s business base, promote innovation, and create new opportunities for local businesses to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.
Grants from £2k – £5k are currently available to support business start-ups, those with growth plans, training needs and some apprenticeships.
The fund provides a range of grant opportunities targeted at different stages of business development. Training Grants are available to businesses seeking to provide relevant courses for their employees with a clear link to growth and development. Business Start-Up Grants support individuals who demonstrate both the potential and commitment to grow their business and create employment, although lifestyle businesses are not eligible unless they offer something unique or of clear benefit to the area. Business Growth Grants are designed for existing businesses that can demonstrate job creation, not just retention, through their projects.
To be eligible, applicants must be small to medium enterprises such as sole traders, partnerships, or limited companies based within the Caithness and North Sutherland area, also known as the Dounreay Travel to Work Area. Applicants may be seeking to start a new business, develop an existing one through training or growth plans, or employ an apprentice. Financial viability must also be demonstrated. Certain sectors are excluded from support, including alcohol, gambling, weapons, financial services, primary agriculture, property development, and any activities with a negative environmental impact or those considered morally or ethically controversial.
Grant award conditions require recipients to provide progress reports, participate in publicity regarding the award, and avoid seeking funding for retrospective projects. The fund may also impose additional conditions on a case-by-case basis. Applicants can seek assistance from the fund management team for support with application requirements, including business plans and financial documentation.
For more information, visit Caithness Business Fund.
