Funding for established small and medium-sized businesses across Scotland — from equipment and premises to energy efficiency, training, exporting and innovation.
Grants tend to fund a defined project with a clear result: a machine that increases capacity, a building improvement that cuts energy use, a training plan that raises skills, or a first push into a new export market. General working capital and existing salaries are rarely eligible.
Have recent accounts, a short project description, itemised costs with supplier quotes, and a simple statement of the difference the project makes. Most decisions turn on whether the funder believes the project would not happen, or would happen much more slowly, without their support.
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 Skills Agency
Example funding programme — demonstration data. Subsidised staff training for Edinburgh employers.
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 Innovation Board
Example funding programme — demonstration data. Competitive funding for research and development projects.
Example North East Fund
Example funding programme — demonstration data. Equipment and machinery funding in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
Example Enterprise Agency
Example funding programme — demonstration data. Support for websites, ecommerce and digital systems.
Example Trade Support
Example funding programme — demonstration data. Vouchers for international market research and trade shows.
Example Rural Partnership
Example funding programme — demonstration data. Capital support for rural businesses in the Highlands.
Example Energy Programme
Example funding programme — demonstration data. Interest-free loan for energy efficiency upgrades.
See also business grants in Scotland.
Most Scottish and UK funders use the SME definition: fewer than 250 employees, with turnover or balance sheet limits. Many local schemes set much lower thresholds, such as under 50 employees.
Yes. Capital, energy, export, training and innovation programmes are frequently aimed at businesses trading for three years or more.
No, but it is common. Where it applies, the funder pays a percentage of eligible costs and you must evidence the remainder from your own resources or finance.
Usually yes, provided you do not claim the same cost twice and stay within subsidy control limits. Tell each funder about other funding for the same project.
Last updated: 14 September 2026
