Grants and funding for businesses

If you run a business in South Lanarkshire, there are several grants and support programmes that can help you grow, develop new ideas or start trading. This page explains what is currently available and where you can find reliable, up‑to‑date information.

Find the right funding

You can explore different types of finance and learn how to prepare for investment through the Finance Scotland website. This includes guidance on loans, grants, equity options and what funders look for.

Use the links below to check what support you may be able to apply for. Each organisation sets its own criteria, so always read the guidance carefully before you start an application.

Explore different types of business finance and learn how to prepare for investment through the Finance Scotland website. Guidance is available on loans, grants, equity finance and what funders look for when assessing applications.

You can also visit FindBusinessSupport.gov.scot, a national directory of public sector support, grants and business services available across Scotland.

Use the links below to see what support may be available to your business. Each organisation has its own eligibility criteria and application process, so be sure to read the guidance carefully before applying.

South Lanarkshire Business Growth Grant

The South Lanarkshire Business Growth Grant (SLBGG) supports established local businesses to invest in projects that drive growth, create jobs, increase turnover, or reduce energy use and carbon emissions. The grant can cover up to 50% of eligible project costs (excluding VAT), with awards ranging from £5,000 to £20,000, subject to a maximum of 10% of the business’s most recent annual turnover. Businesses must have been trading for at least 12 months, and projects must not have started before an application is approved. Funding is paid retrospectively on receipt of evidence of expenditure.

Funding is available for a range of business growth activities, including:

• capital equipment purchases
• infrastructure improvements
• consultancy support
• business training
• exploring new markets through trade exhibitions and events

Eligible projects must have a minimum value of £10,000, or £4,000 for training and exhibition support applications. Businesses can receive support through one SLBGG application between 1 April 2026 and 31 March 2029. To find out more and check your eligibility, visit our Business Growth Grant page.

Other business funding and support programmes

Business Energy Scotland
Free advice and funding to help businesses reduce energy use and cut costs.

King’s Trust
Support for young entrepreneurs, including small business grants and mentoring.

DSL Business Finance
Loans for new and growing businesses across Scotland.

Start Up Loans
Government‑backed loans and mentoring for new businesses.

Research and Development Grants
Support for businesses developing new products, processes or services.

UKSE
Investment and grants for businesses creating jobs in former steel areas.