Rural England Prosperity Fund – Business Grant Scheme (UK)

The key focus of this scheme is to support capital projects that specifically address the particular challenges faced by rural areas. The fund serves as a top-up to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and aims to strengthen rural economies through business investment, job creation, and community resilience.

Under the scheme, capital grant funding between £3,000 and £14,000 is available for projects located within the eligible Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) areas of Tewkesbury Borough, as identified by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). Projects must be completed and paid for by 27 February 2026, and applicants are required to contribute a minimum of 20% in match funding, which must be capital and secured at the time of application.

Eligible applicants must be based in an REPF-designated area and meet the government’s definition of a Micro or Small Enterprise. Only capital projects qualify, and businesses must be trading from registered business premises in Tewkesbury Borough. Projects cannot be retrospective or already commenced before approval. Additionally, applicants must have relevant permissions, a UK-based business bank account, and demonstrate project viability and proper funding arrangements.

Each applicant is limited to one grant award, and those who have already received UKSPF or REPF funding within the Borough are ineligible. Public authorities, voluntary organizations, and national franchise chains are excluded. Businesses on leased or rented premises must provide written landlord consent and hold a minimum lease term of three years.

This grant initiative is an important step toward strengthening rural enterprise, enabling local businesses to invest in innovation, sustainability, and long-term economic development across Tewkesbury Borough.

For more information, visit Tewkesbury Borough Council.