Equipment funding is typically capital funding: it pays a share of the cost of tools, machinery or fit-out items that you keep. Expect to provide quotes, and to pay part of the cost yourself through match funding.
Funding in this category is offered by a mix of national agencies, councils and sector bodies. Programmes differ in the costs they accept, so read the eligible and ineligible cost lists carefully before you commit to any spending.
Most funders will not pay for anything bought before your application is approved, and many pay in arrears once you have provided invoices and proof of payment.
Demonstration data. The funding records on this site are clearly labelled examples used to test the directory. They are not real funding opportunities and are not currently available.
Example Third Sector Trust
Example funding programme — demonstration data. Start-up funding for social enterprises.
Example Tourism Board
Example funding programme — demonstration data. Support for visitor experience improvements.
Example City Council
Example funding programme — demonstration data. Early-stage support for new Glasgow businesses.
Example Creative Fund
Example funding programme — demonstration data. Project funding for creative businesses in Dundee.
Example North East Fund
Example funding programme — demonstration data. Equipment and machinery funding in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
Example Rural Partnership
Example funding programme — demonstration data. Capital support for rural businesses in the Highlands.
Example Industry Fund
Example funding programme — demonstration data. Closed demonstration programme kept for reference.
Eligibility varies by programme, but funders normally look at where you trade, how long you have been trading, your legal structure, your sector and the size of your business. Each record on this page lists its own criteria.
Awards in this category range from a few hundred pounds for vouchers and training to six figures for capital and innovation projects. Most programmes publish a maximum award and a percentage of costs they will cover.
Often yes. Capital and innovation funding typically requires match funding, while small training and startup programmes sometimes cover the full cost up to a cap.
Last updated: 14 September 2026
