Funding & support resources

Flexible Social Finance has been designed with the social sector, for the social sector.

Franchise Angels is an investment initiative to assist the rapid growth of proven businesses via franchising.

A funding initiative aimed at supporting UK-based artists working with immersive technologies.

The SWEF Business Grant supports young people living in County Durham or Tees Valley with a business investment they can’t afford but will transform their business.

Shaping the skills and knowledge of our creative industries

Venture Sunderland provides investment for ambitious, high-growth companies at all stages.

Debt and equity finance for businesses based in or looking to relocate to County Durham.

Through the North East Culture and Creative Investment Programme, funded by the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, Creative UK are investing £500,000 through equity finance in the region’s cultural and creative industries.

UK registered micro and small businesses can apply for a share of up to £500,000 to develop adoptable and investable innovations within communication networks. This funding is from the Telecoms Technology Missions Fund programme.

The Life Sciences Innovative Manufacturing Fund supports businesses investing in life sciences manufacturing projects in the UK.

Growing inclusive funding opportunities for business

This grant programme will help local growing businesses to access high quality external expertise to deliver business improvement projects.

The Flexible Finance Fund by the Social Investment Business, The Ubele Initiative, and Create Equity offers a blend of grants and loans to Black and Racially Minoritised-led charities and social enterprises in England.

Local experts providing practical businesses advice

The ICAEW Business Advice Service (BAS) provides a free consultation to businesses seeking trusted business advice.

Start up and grow in space with the UK Space Agency Accelerator.