Software grants for UK businesses
Grants that pay towards custom software, web apps and mobile apps for UK businesses, from proof-of-concept funds to digital adoption schemes.
- 18 open or opening soon
- Every scheme links to its funder
- Free supplier quotes in 72 hours
Find your grant
Grants for software come in two kinds. Proof-of-concept and innovation funds back new products: the first working version of an app or platform, usually for an early-stage company. Digital adoption funds help an existing business buy or build software that changes how it works, such as a booking system, a customer portal or an internal tool.
Either kind may pay for custom development by an outside supplier, and both usually want to see what the build will cost before they decide. That is where a written supplier quote comes in.
A scheme is listed here when its guidance says it covers software or app development.
Updated
Where is your business based?
How far along are you?
18 schemes open or opening soon
Business Growth Fund 2026-27 (North Lanarkshire)
North Lanarkshire CouncilWhereNorth LanarkshireFunding£1,000 to £20,000OpenCloses 4 Dec 2026
Competitive capital and growth grant for North Lanarkshire SMEs in key sectors, covering items such as bespoke software and e-commerce platforms. Up to 50% of net costs, up to £20,000 per application.
Who can apply
- SME (under 250 employees) based in North Lanarkshire, in a key sector (e.g. digital, creative, manufacturing, logistics, tourism)
- Trading at least 12 months with turnover at the VAT threshold (exceptions for high-growth projects)
- Must be working with a Business Gateway adviser
- ICT/digital capital projects must be discussed with the adviser first
- Businesses employing staff must pay the Real Living Wage
- Applications over £10,000 must show community benefit
- Max 2 awards and £40,000 per business in a rolling 24 months; max 10 items per application
What it pays for
- Bespoke software
- E-commerce platforms
- Bespoke ICT equipment
- Servers or cloud-based systems
- Machinery or equipment, and green capital projects
- Infrastructure improvements such as premises or ICT cabling (up to £20,000)
- Workforce or skills development (up to £5,000)
- Exhibition support (up to £4,000)
What it won’t pay for
- VAT and delivery costs
- Projects already started, or orders or deposits placed before the application decision
- Capital expenditure and infrastructure grants for home-based businesses
How to apply
- Contact Business Gateway Lanarkshire (01698 442837, lanarkshire@bgateway.com) and work with a Business Gateway adviser.
- A council officer visits your premises and meets the directors or owners before you apply.
- Once eligibility is confirmed, your adviser sends a web link to the online application form.
- Submit the form with evidence (incl. business plan, accounts, 12-month cash flow and two supplier quotes) by a monthly deadline: 5pm 16 Oct, 13 Nov or 4 Dec 2026.
- A monthly panel decides. If awarded, buy within six months, pay suppliers, then claim (final claim deadline 5pm 29 Jan 2027).
What the quotes must show
- On the supplier's own headed paper (ideally PDF or a scan); email quotes only if clearly from the supplier's business email
- Dated within the last 3 months, citing your business name and address and the supplier's contact details
- Clear breakdown of goods or services; impartial, accurate and value for money; handwritten quotes not accepted
- Declare any personal, business or financial connection to your preferred supplier and discuss it with your adviser first
- Funding
- £1,000 to £20,000
- Covers
- Covers up to 50% of costs
- Applications
- Closes 4 December 2026
- Supplier quote
- 2, each from a different supplier
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Local Growth Fund: Conwy Business Growth & Resilience Programme
Conwy County Borough CouncilWhereConwyFunding£3,000 to £50,000OpenNo closing date given
Growth grant for Conwy SMEs, covering digitalisation and automation, specialist software, e-commerce systems, new websites and customer management systems. Up to 70% of costs.
Who can apply
- Located in Conwy County Borough; actively trading and registered with HMRC
- SME up to 250 employees; turnover under €50m or balance sheet under €43m
- Minimum 30% applicant contribution; match funding in place
- Must deliver at least one LGF output and one outcome
- Priority sectors incl. creative, professional services, manufacturing, health, tourism; others if aligned (e.g. digital adoption)
- Minimum individual item cost £100
- First come, first served until funds are committed
What it pays for
- Digitalisation and automation
- Specialist software required for business growth
- Digital transformation projects and new technologies
- E-commerce systems, new websites and digital sales platforms
- Customer management systems
- Specialist consultancy
- Capital equipment, installation and commissioning
- Business development related training
What it won’t pay for
- Retrospective spend or projects started before approval
- Routine replacement of assets incl. upgrades of IT equipment and software
- Salaries, normal operating costs and stock
- Recoverable VAT, cash purchases, hire purchase or lease agreements
- Work carried out by the applicant or their own employees
- General maintenance and repair
How to apply
- Speak to Conwy Business Support (business@conwy.gov.uk, 01492 574574) before applying.
- Read the criteria and guidance documents in full.
- Submit the online application with business plan, accounts, 12-month cash flow, P&L forecast, match funding evidence, HMRC registration and quotes.
- The Grant Review Panel decides; do not spend anything on the project until you have written confirmation.
- Complete the project and claim by the date in your grant offer (before end of March 2027).
What the quotes must show
- Itemised
- Comparable
- Demonstrate value for money
- From independent suppliers
- Declare any personal, family or business connection to a supplier; connected contractors must charge without profit margin
- The council may contact businesses that submitted quotations
- Funding
- £3,000 to £50,000
- Covers
- Covers up to 70% of costs
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- 2 up to £10,000; 3 for £10,001 and above
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Technology Development Grant (HIE DaTE)
Highlands and Islands EnterpriseWhereHighlands and IslandsFunding£10,000 to £25,000OpenNo closing date given
Grant for Highlands and Islands businesses researching, developing and testing a new digital or technology-led product, process or service, including software, SaaS, AI, platforms and apps. Minimum £10,000.
Who can apply
- Based in the Highlands and Islands Enterprise area
- Fewer than 50 employees (incl. community and social enterprises)
- Technology must be central to a new product, process or service
- Routine business advice, incremental improvement or general digital adoption not eligible
- Retail, hospitality, personal or general business services unlikely unless creating a new tech venture
- Fair Work conditions apply; pay costs upfront and claim in arrears
- Rolling while funds last; applications close May 2027 (exact day not published)
What it pays for
- Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning products
- Software development and software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions
- Digital platforms, apps and online services
- Data innovation and data-driven products
- Robotics, automation and cobotics
- IoT, sensor-based and connected technology products
- Cyber security, AR/VR and immersive technologies
- Other technology-enabled products with proprietary IP, incl. emerging and deep tech
What it won’t pay for
- Projects previously funded by HIE
- Salary costs of payroll employees
- Placements
- Legal costs
- Travel and accommodation (generally excluded; case by case depending on location)
How to apply
- Complete HIE's enquiry form; a member of the HIE team will get in touch.
- Apply with an outline brief, evidence of at least three contractor quotes and justification for your chosen supplier.
- HIE appraises each case (need for funding, viability, ability to deliver, economic impact); intervention level is agreed during the application.
- If offered a grant, complete the work and pay suppliers upfront, then submit a claim; HIE pays in arrears.
What the quotes must show
- Provide an outline brief for the work, evidence of at least three quotes from potential contractors and justification for your choice
- Choose your own suppliers: HIE cannot recommend suppliers
- If you pay a supplier by business credit card, say so at application; the card must be paid before you claim
- Funding
- £10,000 to £25,000
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- At least three
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Made Smarter Adoption (North West)
Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade)WhereNorth WestFundingUp to £20,000OpenNo closing date given
Match-funded grant for North West manufacturing SMEs adopting digital technology, covering technology and advice identified through the Made Smarter assessment and digital roadmap.
Who can apply
- SME manufacturer with operations in the region
- Join the programme (assessment and digital roadmap) before applying for a grant
- Turnover under £36m or balance sheet under £18m
What it pays for
- Equipment to implement digital technology projects
- Specialist advice to implement projects
How to apply
- Register your business as a manufacturer on the regional Made Smarter page.
- A Made Smarter specialist assesses your business and runs a diagnostic or digital assessment.
- Build a digital transformation roadmap with the team.
- Apply for a match-funded grant for eligible projects identified in your roadmap.
- Funding
- Up to £20,000
- Covers
- Covers up to 50% of costs
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- Check the guidance
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Made Smarter Adoption (Yorkshire and the Humber)
Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade)WhereYorkshire and the HumberFundingUp to £20,000OpenNo closing date given
Match-funded grant for Yorkshire and the Humber manufacturing SMEs adopting digital technology, covering technology and advice identified through the Made Smarter assessment and digital roadmap.
Who can apply
- SME manufacturer with operations in the region
- Join the programme (assessment and digital roadmap) before applying for a grant
- Turnover under £36m or balance sheet under £18m
- Projects must show clear additionality
- Grants are paid retrospectively
What it pays for
- Industry 4.0 technology adoption for projects identified through your digital assessment
- Consultant or academic expertise for targeted projects (up to 50% match funding)
How to apply
- Register your business as a manufacturer on the regional Made Smarter page.
- A Made Smarter specialist assesses your business and runs a diagnostic or digital assessment.
- Build a digital transformation roadmap with the team.
- Apply for a match-funded grant for eligible projects identified in your roadmap.
- Funding
- Up to £20,000
- Covers
- Covers up to 50% of costs
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- Check the guidance
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Made Smarter Adoption (East Midlands)
Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade)WhereEast MidlandsFundingUp to £20,000OpenNo closing date given
Match-funded grant for East Midlands manufacturing SMEs adopting digital technology, covering technology and advice identified through the Made Smarter assessment and digital roadmap.
Who can apply
- SME manufacturer with operations in the region
- Join the programme (assessment and digital roadmap) before applying for a grant
What it pays for
- Equipment and/or specialist advice for Industrial Digital Technology projects
- Cognitive computing and AI (machine learning)
- Data and systems integration; big data and analytics
- Internet of Things (sensors, barcode, RFID etc.), mobile devices and wearables
- AR and VR; additive manufacturing; industrial cyber security
How to apply
- Register your business as a manufacturer on the regional Made Smarter page.
- A Made Smarter specialist assesses your business and runs a diagnostic or digital assessment.
- Build a digital transformation roadmap with the team.
- Apply for a match-funded grant for eligible projects identified in your roadmap.
- Funding
- Up to £20,000
- Covers
- Covers up to 50% of costs
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- Check the guidance
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Made Smarter Adoption (West Midlands)
Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade)WhereWest MidlandsFundingUp to £20,000OpenNo closing date given
Match-funded grant for West Midlands manufacturing SMEs adopting digital technology, covering technology and advice identified through the Made Smarter assessment and digital roadmap.
Who can apply
- SME manufacturer with operations in the region
- Join the programme (assessment and digital roadmap) before applying for a grant
- Advanced manufacturing and engineering SMEs
What it pays for
- Digital technology equipment to implement projects
- Specialist advice to implement projects
How to apply
- Register your business as a manufacturer on the regional Made Smarter page.
- A Made Smarter specialist assesses your business and runs a diagnostic or digital assessment.
- Build a digital transformation roadmap with the team.
- Apply for a match-funded grant for eligible projects identified in your roadmap.
- Funding
- Up to £20,000
- Covers
- Covers up to 50% of costs
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- Check the guidance
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Made Smarter Adoption (South East)
Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade)WhereSouth EastFundingUp to £20,000OpenNo closing date given
Match-funded grant for South East manufacturing SMEs adopting digital technology, covering technology and advice identified through the Made Smarter assessment and digital roadmap.
Who can apply
- SME manufacturer with operations in the region
- Join the programme (assessment and digital roadmap) before applying for a grant
- A limited number of grants up to £50,000
- Annual turnover below £44m; under £315k State aid in last 3 years
- Not part of a larger group or owned by private equity
- Programme runs until end of March 2027
What it pays for
- Equipment (hardware or software)
How to apply
- Register your business as a manufacturer on the regional Made Smarter page.
- A Made Smarter specialist assesses your business and runs a diagnostic or digital assessment.
- Build a digital transformation roadmap with the team.
- Apply for a match-funded grant for eligible projects identified in your roadmap.
- Funding
- Up to £20,000
- Covers
- Covers up to 50% of costs
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- Check the guidance
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Made Smarter Adoption (South West)
Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade)WhereSouth WestFunding£1,000 to £20,000OpenNo closing date given
Match-funded grant for South West manufacturing SMEs adopting digital technology, covering technology and advice identified through the Made Smarter assessment and digital roadmap.
Who can apply
- SME manufacturer with operations in the region
- Join the programme (assessment and digital roadmap) before applying for a grant
- Registered or trading in the South West
- Grants between £1,000 and £20,000
What it pays for
- Expert advice from a technology specialist
- Purchase of new software and/or equipment
How to apply
- Register your business as a manufacturer on the regional Made Smarter page.
- A Made Smarter specialist assesses your business and runs a diagnostic or digital assessment.
- Build a digital transformation roadmap with the team.
- Apply for a match-funded grant for eligible projects identified in your roadmap.
- Funding
- £1,000 to £20,000
- Covers
- Covers up to 50% of costs
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- Check the guidance
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Made Smarter Adoption (East of England)
Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade)WhereEast of EnglandFundingUp to £20,000OpenNo closing date given
Match-funded grant for East of England manufacturing SMEs adopting digital technology, covering technology and advice identified through the Made Smarter assessment and digital roadmap.
Who can apply
- SME manufacturer with operations in the region
- Join the programme (assessment and digital roadmap) before applying for a grant
- Manufacturing SMEs in Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire or Bedfordshire
- Page says only 10% of 2026-27 roadmaps remain
What it pays for
- Equipment
- Software
- Specialist expertise or services
How to apply
- Register your business as a manufacturer on the regional Made Smarter page.
- A Made Smarter specialist assesses your business and runs a diagnostic or digital assessment.
- Build a digital transformation roadmap with the team.
- Apply for a match-funded grant for eligible projects identified in your roadmap.
- Funding
- Up to £20,000
- Covers
- Covers up to 50% of costs
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- Check the guidance
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Made Smarter Adoption (London)
Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade)WhereLondonFundingUp to £20,000OpenNo closing date given
Match-funded grant for London manufacturing SMEs adopting digital technology, covering technology and advice identified through the Made Smarter assessment and digital roadmap.
Who can apply
- SME manufacturer with operations in the region
- Join the programme (assessment and digital roadmap) before applying for a grant
- Minimum 50% applicant contribution
What it pays for
- New digital tools, systems or equipment
How to apply
- Register your business as a manufacturer on the regional Made Smarter page.
- A Made Smarter specialist assesses your business and runs a diagnostic or digital assessment.
- Build a digital transformation roadmap with the team.
- Apply for a match-funded grant for eligible projects identified in your roadmap.
- Funding
- Up to £20,000
- Covers
- Covers up to 50% of costs
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- Check the guidance
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Technology Kickstart Grant (HIE DaTE)
Highlands and Islands EnterpriseWhereHighlands and IslandsFunding£2,000 to £10,000OpenNo closing date given
Early-stage R&D grant for founders and small businesses in the Highlands and Islands developing a new digital or technology-led minimum viable product, process or service. Covers a proportion of costs, minimum £2,000.
Who can apply
- Based in the Highlands and Islands Enterprise area
- Fewer than 50 employees (incl. community and social enterprises)
- Technology must be central to a new product, process or service
- Routine business advice, incremental improvement or general digital adoption not eligible
- Retail, hospitality, personal or general business services unlikely unless creating a new tech venture
- Fair Work conditions apply; pay costs upfront and claim in arrears
- Rolling while funds last; applications close May 2027 (exact day not published)
What it pays for
- Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning products
- Software development and software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions
- Digital platforms, apps and online services
- Data innovation and data-driven products
- Robotics, automation and cobotics
- IoT, sensor-based and connected technology products
- Cyber security, AR/VR and immersive technologies
- Other technology-enabled products with proprietary IP, incl. emerging and deep tech
What it won’t pay for
- Projects previously funded by HIE
- Salary costs of payroll employees
- Placements
- Legal costs
- Travel and accommodation (generally excluded; case by case depending on location)
How to apply
- Complete HIE's enquiry form; a member of the HIE team will get in touch.
- Apply with an outline brief, evidence of at least three contractor quotes and justification for your chosen supplier.
- HIE appraises each case (need for funding, viability, ability to deliver, economic impact); intervention level is agreed during the application.
- If offered a grant, complete the work and pay suppliers upfront, then submit a claim; HIE pays in arrears.
What the quotes must show
- Provide an outline brief for the work, evidence of at least three quotes from potential contractors and justification for your choice
- Choose your own suppliers: HIE cannot recommend suppliers
- If you pay a supplier by business credit card, say so at application; the card must be paid before you claim
- Funding
- £2,000 to £10,000
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- At least three
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Digital Development Grant (West Lothian)
West Lothian CouncilWhereWest LothianFundingUp to £7,500OpenNo closing date given
Grant for West Lothian businesses introducing new digital capabilities, such as building an e-commerce website, developing an app or buying software. Up to £7,500 against a total project cost of £15,000.
Who can apply
- Based in West Lothian; key sectors incl. electronics and software, creative, manufacturing, tourism (others if strategically aligned)
- Trading more than 12 months and reached the VAT threshold
- Up to 50% of eligible costs; maximum project cost £15,000
- Businesses employing staff must pay at least the Real Living Wage
- Do not apply if awarded a Digital Development Grant in the last 12 months
- No reapplying for 18 months after drawdown; max 2 grants per business
- No closing date published; budgets are limited
What it pays for
- Building an e-commerce website
- Developing an app
- Purchase of software and IT, and digital hardware
- Improving IT infrastructure
- Enhancing digital skills of the workforce
What it won’t pay for
- VAT
- Activities already started before applying
How to apply
- Review West Lothian Council's business funding guide (priorities, key sectors and pre-application criteria).
- Register interest by emailing invest@westlothian.gov.uk; funding is delivered by Business Gateway West Lothian.
- Apply with management accounts, financial projections and an environmental plan.
- If awarded, pay upfront and reclaim the grant with invoices and bank statements (paid retrospectively).
- Funding
- Up to £7,500
- Covers
- Covers up to 50% of costs
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- Check the guidance
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Business Development Grants 2026-27 (East Renfrewshire)
East Renfrewshire CouncilWhereEast RenfrewshireFundingUp to £5,000OpenNo closing date given
Grants for East Renfrewshire businesses towards bespoke IT software, IT equipment for new services and e-commerce activity. Off-the-shelf software and non-e-commerce brochure websites are excluded.
Who can apply
- Located and trading in East Renfrewshire
- Micro Business Grant: trading 12+ months, 16+ hours a week, turnover £10k-£100k, up to £2,000
- Small Business Growth Grant: trading 12+ months, turnover £100k+, 50% of eligible costs, £2,001-£5,000
- Items must be purchased outright
- Not in debt to the council (active repayment plans considered)
- Available between now and February 2027 (exact day not published)
What it pays for
- Bespoke IT software
- IT equipment for new services
- Marketing and e-commerce activities
- Capital equipment for new services, products or processes
- Exhibiting at a national trade show
- Commercial property improvements incl. energy efficiency measures
What it won’t pay for
- Off-the-shelf software packages (e.g. Microsoft Office, Sage)
- Laptops, tablets or mobile phones
- Websites or brochures without a clear focus on e-commerce; social media advertising
- Purchases or orders already made; hire purchase, lease or finance
- Furniture, consumables, second-hand equipment, vehicles
- Transport, subsistence or accommodation
How to apply
- Check the eligibility criteria on the council's page.
- Complete the online application form and upload supporting documents (it has no save facility and times out after 45 minutes).
- Include 1 written quote per item, your last 2 months of business bank statements, annual accounts and an income and expenditure projection.
- The council reviews the application and may visit; a decision is usually made within 14 days.
What the quotes must show
- Micro grants: give your rationale for the chosen supplier
- Funding
- Up to £5,000
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- 1 written quote per item
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Bulwell Business Growth Grant 2026-2028
Nottingham City CouncilWhereBulwell, NottinghamFunding£1,000 to £5,000OpenNo closing date given
Capital grant for businesses in Nottingham's Bulwell and Bulwell Forest wards, covering technology, software, web design and development and e-commerce development, at 50% of project cost excluding VAT.
Who can apply
- Located in Bulwell or Bulwell Forest ward, Nottingham
- Trading at least 12 months
- Registered at Companies House or with an HMRC UTR
- Must fund 100% upfront; PayPal, personal credit cards, cash and cheques not accepted
- No arrears or debts with Nottingham City Council
- Capital only; open until all funding is committed
What it pays for
- Capital investment such as machinery, equipment, technology and software
- Web design and development, and e-commerce development
- Research and development, e.g. product development incl. prototypes
What it won’t pay for
- Updating or adding content to existing websites
- Recurring revenue costs such as salaries, rent and subscriptions
- Repairs or maintenance of existing ICT, and like-for-like replacements
- Mobile phones, vehicles and printed marketing
- VAT
- Goods or services bought before the grant agreement
How to apply
- Submit an Expression of Interest form (from the council's Bulwell regeneration page or econdev.grants@nottinghamcity.gov.uk).
- The council checks project and item eligibility.
- If eligible, you're invited to a full application and connected to a Nottingham City Business Growth Hub adviser.
- Submit the full application with supplier quote(s), two years' full accounts and recent management accounts.
- Due diligence, appraisal and a grant panel follow; don't commit to any supplier before the grant agreement is signed.
- Pay 100% upfront, then claim 50% back; all claims by 10 March 2028.
What the quotes must show
- State whether VAT applies and give prices including and excluding VAT
- If the supplier isn't VAT registered, provide email confirmation from them
- Explain why your preferred supplier is best for price and quality (Appendix A of the full form)
- No supplier the business, its directors or agents are connected to
- Funding
- £1,000 to £5,000
- Covers
- Covers up to 50% of costs
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- 1 under £25,000 net; 3 at £25,000 or more
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Technology Advice and Mentoring Grant (HIE DaTE)
Highlands and Islands EnterpriseWhereHighlands and IslandsFunding£2,000 to £5,000OpenNo closing date given
Grant towards paid specialist advice and mentoring for Highlands and Islands tech founders, such as technical scoping, product roadmaps, MVP requirements and technical feasibility. Minimum £2,000.
Who can apply
- Based in the Highlands and Islands Enterprise area
- Fewer than 50 employees (incl. community and social enterprises)
- Technology must be central to a new product, process or service
- Routine business advice, incremental improvement or general digital adoption not eligible
- Retail, hospitality, personal or general business services unlikely unless creating a new tech venture
- Fair Work conditions apply; pay costs upfront and claim in arrears
- Rolling while funds last; applications close May 2027 (exact day not published)
What it pays for
- Technical scoping, product roadmap planning and advice on minimum viable product requirements
- Customer discovery, market research, market testing and competitor analysis
- Refining the business idea, value proposition and target market
- Business model development, pricing, commercial planning and go-to-market preparation
- Founder mentoring on start-up readiness and investment preparedness
- Specialist advice to prepare a business plan, action plan or investor-ready proposition
What it won’t pay for
- Projects previously funded by HIE
- Own time or salary costs of payroll employees
- Materials
- Placements
- Legal costs
- Travel and accommodation (generally excluded; case by case depending on location)
How to apply
- Complete HIE's enquiry form; a member of the HIE team will get in touch.
- Apply with an outline brief, evidence of at least three contractor quotes and justification for your chosen supplier.
- HIE appraises each case (need for funding, viability, ability to deliver, economic impact); intervention level is agreed during the application.
- If offered a grant, complete the work and pay suppliers upfront, then submit a claim; HIE pays in arrears.
What the quotes must show
- Identify up to three eligible consultants or mentors; provide evidence of at least three quotes and justification for your choice
- Choose your own supplier: HIE cannot recommend suppliers
- If you pay a supplier by business credit card, say so at application; the card must be paid before you claim
- Funding
- £2,000 to £5,000
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- At least three
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Made Smarter Adoption (North East)
Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade)WhereNorth EastFundingSee the official pageOpenNo closing date given
Match-funded grant for North East manufacturing SMEs adopting digital technology, covering technology and advice identified through the Made Smarter assessment and digital roadmap.
Who can apply
- SME manufacturer with operations in the region
- Join the programme (assessment and digital roadmap) before applying for a grant
- SMEs (under 250 employees) in manufacturing and advanced manufacturing in the North East MSA and Tees Valley CA areas
What it pays for
- New technology and software
How to apply
- Register your business as a manufacturer on the regional Made Smarter page.
- A Made Smarter specialist assesses your business and runs a diagnostic or digital assessment.
- Build a digital transformation roadmap with the team.
- Apply for a match-funded grant for eligible projects identified in your roadmap.
- Funding
- See the official page
- Applications
- No closing date given
- Supplier quote
- Check the guidance
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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SMART: SCOTLAND
Scottish EnterpriseWhereScotlandFundingSee the official pageOpening soonExpected late autumn 2026
Scottish Enterprise's SMART: SCOTLAND feasibility grant is on hold and not accepting applications. Scottish Enterprise says a new fund will launch in late autumn 2026; its terms aren't published yet.
Who can apply
- New fund's terms not yet published
- Previous round: Scottish SMEs with technically innovative feasibility projects with a commercial endpoint
- Previous round: management and technical resources could be in-house or brought in
How to apply
- Sign up for Scottish Enterprise's newsletter for updates on the new fund; no applications are being accepted now.
- Funding
- See the official page
- Applications
- Expected late autumn 2026
- Supplier quote
- Check the guidance
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
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Closed for now 2Between rounds. Worth knowing about for next time.
South Midlands Capital Growth Grant
South Midlands Growth HubWhereBedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, Milton Keynes, North and West NorthamptonsFunding£5,000 to £25,000Closed for now
Capital grant for innovative projects by businesses in Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, Milton Keynes and North and West Northamptonshire, incl. software and capitalised website development. Up to 50%; the 2026 round has closed.
Who can apply
- SME based in one of the six South Midlands areas (registered in the UK)
- Registered, trading enterprise; not an undertaking in difficulty
- Capital expenditure only; 50% match funding required
- One application per group of linked companies
- Full applications closed 25 Sep 2026; decisions expected from w/c 23 Nov 2026
What it pays for
- Software development: coding, testing, installation and configuration
- Perpetual software licences and hardware directly related to the software project
- Website or web application development that can be capitalised (not just promotion)
- Plant, equipment and machinery for new products or processes
- Equipment to support new product or service development
- Patents and domain names
- Improvements to commercial buildings (with evidence)
What it won’t pay for
- Monthly or annual software licences (e.g. SaaS)
- Software maintenance, training and bug fixing once live; minor updates
- Routine replacement of consumables, laptops, software licences; like-for-like
- Core running or staff costs, working capital
- Stand-alone social media set-up or management; vans; land or buildings
- Costs before the grant offer date or after the scheme end date
How to apply
- Submit an Expression of Interest (2026 deadline was 5pm 23 Jul 2026).
- If invited, submit a full application with documents via the online portal (2026 deadline was 5pm 25 Sep 2026).
- Shortlisted applicants pitch in person to the Grant Investment Panel.
- If approved, a Grant Offer Letter sets the earliest start date; projects must finish by 31 Dec 2027.
What the quotes must show
- At least one quote from a local provider
- From independent, unrelated suppliers and sourced independently (not by a supplier on your behalf)
- Itemised, showing VAT status, business name, address, phone, company number, VAT number and website
- Comparable, dated less than 3 months old, still valid and addressed to your organisation
- £25,000+: provide a procurement specification the quotes respond to
- If awarded, use the named preferred supplier unless changes are approved in writing
- Funding
- £5,000 to £25,000
- Covers
- Covers up to 50% of costs
- Applications
- Next round not announced
- Supplier quote
- 1 up to £4,999; 3 from £5,000 (one local)
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
More like thisGrants in England, Website grants
Digital Voucher Fund (Lincolnshire)
Lincolnshire County CouncilWhereLincolnshireFunding£1,000 to £5,000Closed for now
Vouchers for Lincolnshire businesses with fewer than 50 employees for specialist digital advice and new technology such as e-commerce, website and software development. Closed early due to demand.
Who can apply
- Lincolnshire businesses with fewer than 50 employees
- One application per business
- Closed at noon on 9 March due to demand (year not stated); no new round published
What it pays for
- 1-2-1 specialist digital advice
- E-commerce platforms and website development
- Software development
- Contactless payment systems
- IT hardware and software, e.g. for remote working or digitising processes
- Funding
- £1,000 to £5,000
- Covers
- Can cover the full cost
- Applications
- Next round not announced
- Supplier quote
- Check the guidance
- Last checked
- 11 October 2026
More like thisGrants in England, Website grants
ZeroPixel isn’t connected to any funder. Amounts, deadlines and rules change, so check the official page before you apply. The funder decides who gets funding.
Compare the schemes
Every open and upcoming scheme on one table. The share of costs is the most a grant will pay towards your project, and you fund the rest. Select a scheme to see its details.
| Scheme | Where | Funding | Share of costs | Stage | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Growth Fund 2026-27 (North Lanarkshire)North Lanarkshire Council | North Lanarkshire | £1,000 to £20,000 | Up to 50% | Already trading | OpenCloses 4 Dec 2026 |
| Local Growth Fund: Conwy Business Growth & Resilience ProgrammeConwy County Borough Council | Conwy | £3,000 to £50,000 | Up to 70% | Already trading | OpenNo closing date given |
| Technology Development Grant (HIE DaTE)Highlands and Islands Enterprise | Highlands and Islands | £10,000 to £25,000 | Not stated | Working prototype, Already trading | OpenNo closing date given |
| Made Smarter Adoption (North West)Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade) | North West | Up to £20,000 | Up to 50% | Already trading | OpenNo closing date given |
| Made Smarter Adoption (Yorkshire and the Humber)Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade) | Yorkshire and the Humber | Up to £20,000 | Up to 50% | Already trading | OpenNo closing date given |
| Made Smarter Adoption (East Midlands)Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade) | East Midlands | Up to £20,000 | Up to 50% | Already trading | OpenNo closing date given |
| Made Smarter Adoption (West Midlands)Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade) | West Midlands | Up to £20,000 | Up to 50% | Already trading | OpenNo closing date given |
| Made Smarter Adoption (South East)Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade) | South East | Up to £20,000 | Up to 50% | Already trading | OpenNo closing date given |
| Made Smarter Adoption (South West)Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade) | South West | £1,000 to £20,000 | Up to 50% | Already trading | OpenNo closing date given |
| Made Smarter Adoption (East of England)Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade) | East of England | Up to £20,000 | Up to 50% | Already trading | OpenNo closing date given |
| Made Smarter Adoption (London)Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade) | London | Up to £20,000 | Up to 50% | Already trading | OpenNo closing date given |
| Technology Kickstart Grant (HIE DaTE)Highlands and Islands Enterprise | Highlands and Islands | £2,000 to £10,000 | Not stated | Just an idea, Working prototype | OpenNo closing date given |
| Digital Development Grant (West Lothian)West Lothian Council | West Lothian | Up to £7,500 | Up to 50% | Already trading | OpenNo closing date given |
| Business Development Grants 2026-27 (East Renfrewshire)East Renfrewshire Council | East Renfrewshire | Up to £5,000 | Not stated | Already trading | OpenNo closing date given |
| Bulwell Business Growth Grant 2026-2028Nottingham City Council | Bulwell, Nottingham | £1,000 to £5,000 | Up to 50% | Already trading | OpenNo closing date given |
| Technology Advice and Mentoring Grant (HIE DaTE)Highlands and Islands Enterprise | Highlands and Islands | £2,000 to £5,000 | Not stated | Just an idea, Working prototype | OpenNo closing date given |
| Made Smarter Adoption (North East)Made Smarter (Department for Business and Trade) | North East | See the official page | Not stated | Already trading | OpenNo closing date given |
| SMART: SCOTLANDScottish Enterprise | Scotland | See the official page | Not stated | Any stage | Opening soonExpected late autumn 2026 |
Dates to know
The openings and deadlines funders have published for the next twelve months, month by month.
December 2026
- Business Growth Fund 2026-27 (North Lanarkshire)North LanarkshireCloses
16 more schemes are open with no fixed closing date. Funds like these can close once the money runs out, so check the official page.
How many quotes each grant asks for
Some funders want more than one quote so they can compare prices. We write one. If your grant asks for more, the others have to come from other suppliers.
| Scheme | Where | Quotes needed |
|---|---|---|
| Business Growth Fund 2026-27 (North Lanarkshire)North Lanarkshire Council | North Lanarkshire | 2, each from a different supplier |
| Local Growth Fund: Conwy Business Growth & Resilience ProgrammeConwy County Borough Council | Conwy | 2 up to £10,000; 3 for £10,001 and above |
| Technology Development Grant (HIE DaTE)Highlands and Islands Enterprise | Highlands and Islands | At least three |
| Technology Kickstart Grant (HIE DaTE)Highlands and Islands Enterprise | Highlands and Islands | At least three |
| Business Development Grants 2026-27 (East Renfrewshire)East Renfrewshire Council | East Renfrewshire | 1 written quote per item |
| Bulwell Business Growth Grant 2026-2028Nottingham City Council | Bulwell, Nottingham | 1 under £25,000 net; 3 at £25,000 or more |
| Technology Advice and Mentoring Grant (HIE DaTE)Highlands and Islands Enterprise | Highlands and Islands | At least three |
Grants by nation and project
The same list, narrowed to where your business is or what you want to build, each with its own introduction.
Need a supplier quote?
Tell us about the project and the grant you’re applying for. You’ll have a fixed-price, grant-ready quote within 72 hours, free.