SWEF Expression of Interest Form

for

Funded by SWEF

Applications are submitted via our dedicated grants platform, operated securely and confidentially by Plinth. You will need to create an account by setting up a username and password. For due dilligence purposes we request you upload a proof of identity including date of birth, for details of how we store your details please view our privacy and data protection policies on our website.


Grant Information

  • Applications can be for grants up to the value of £500 for Start-Up Grants, and £2,000 for Business Grants

  • Applications solely for ‘business ideas’ will not be considered. You must be able to give evidence of significant steps taken to get your business off the ground.

  • Business visibility is required - e.g social media presence, website, leaflets

  • Grants must be spent within one month of receipt of funds.

Who is eligible to apply?

  • Applicants need to be between the age of 18-30.

  • Applications need to be for businesses based in Cheshire and Warrington.

  • Applications must come from a majority shareholder.

  • Applicants must demonstrate the financial need for a grant, i.e. they don't have access to other forms of funding such as a bank loan or help from friends and family

  • BUSINESS GRANTS ONLY: Your business must have generated at least £500 of income each month for the most recent three months.

How you can use the grant: (This is not an exhaustive list)

  • Equipment or tools

  • Prototypes and product development

  • Formal, accredited training or courses

  • Advertising, marketing or promotional costs

  • Website/booking system/e-commerce costs

  • Clothing costs – uniforms/protective clothing needed for your work 

  • IT hardware – must be refurbished

  • Trade body or professional membership

SWEF will consider applications for refurbished technology. However, in order to be successful, the applicant will need to explain why the laptop, tablet or phone will transform their business.

Please note that SWEF does not provide grant funding for the following:

  • Salaries

  • Debt repayment

  • Retrospective purchases

  • Rent and utilities

  • App or software development (must be ready to launch, or already live)

  • Stock or materials

  • Subscriptions for basic operational running costs 

  • Dual-use items (e.g. mobile phone, a car, e-bikes, driving lessons)

  • An already established business that you wish to take on as the new owner

Business in the following sectors are NOT eligible:

o   invasive beauty treatments (Botox, aesthetics, semi-permanent makeup, tattoos, fillers)

o   consultancy or property development

o   drugs/tobacco/vaping

o   political or religious agendas

o   gambling and unregulated activity (e.g. crypto)

o   finance/trading needing FCA approval

o   resold mass-produced goods

o   delivery drivers

Contact

If you have any queries or require assistance, please contact the grants team on grants@cheshirecommunityfoundation.org.uk

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