Grants offered to local businesses for investment

Businesses in Newtown, Welshpool and the surrounding area can apply for grants worth between £2,500 and £25,000 to support investment, innovation and growth.

Powys County Council is inviting expressions of interest for its latest Business Growth Grant scheme, funded by the UK Government through the Local Growth Fund.

The funding is intended to help businesses improve productivity and competitiveness, expand their operations, create jobs and develop their workforce.

Eligible projects could include new or second-hand machinery, improvements to commercial premises and digital equipment directly connected to a proposed investment.

The scheme can also support green vehicles used in industrial or manufacturing settings, along with specialist costs such as technical training, machinery installation, software, delivery charges and the development of websites or e-commerce platforms.

Councillor Glyn Preston, Powys County Council’s Cabinet Member for a More Prosperous Powys, said: “We are committed to supporting ambitious businesses that want to invest, innovate and create opportunities within Powys.

“These grants will help businesses accelerate their growth plans, improve productivity, reach new markets and strengthen their long-term resilience.

“Whether you are a start-up looking to establish yourself, a growing company investing in new equipment, or a social enterprise seeking to expand your impact, this funding could provide valuable support towards achieving your ambitions.”

Grants will cover 50 per cent of eligible project costs, up to a maximum award of £25,000. Applicants must provide the remaining funding from private-sector sources.

Successful businesses will also need to pay their project costs in full before receiving the grant as reimbursement.

Applications will be assessed competitively, with value for money, anticipated impact and growth potential among the key considerations.

The scheme is open to start-ups, microbusinesses and small and medium-sized enterprises employing fewer than 250 people. Applicants must have a registered address in Powys, and the proposed investment must support business activity within the county.

Priority will be given to sectors including advanced manufacturing and engineering, agriculture, horticulture and forestry, construction, digital, energy, food and drink, retail, tourism and leisure. Businesses in other sectors may also apply.

A previous recipient, EV Sales and Repairs in Brecon, received just over £10,000 towards equipment designed to increase its servicing capacity.

Business owners Arvydas Kazlauskas and Zoe Powell said the investment had enabled the company to work more quickly, handle more vehicles and carry out additional battery upgrades.

Businesses preparing an application are encouraged to seek assistance from a recognised support provider. Free advice and guidance are available through Business Wales.

Expressions of interest close on September 28, and all supported projects must be completed and claimed by February 26, 2027.

Further details, including the eligibility rules and application process, are available on the Powys County Council website https://en.powys.gov.uk