The Programme Detail
What you need to know about how it works and what the rules of engagement are.
Who can apply?
To apply you must be:
- an SME as defined by the EU definition. This means your company or group of companies must have:
- Fewer than 250 employees
- A turnover less than or equal to €50 million OR
- A balance sheet total less than or equal to €43 million
- A manufacturer, defined as:
“A business that engages in any economic activity directly related to a product or production process they have researched, designed or produced, or otherwise hold core intellectual property in.”
If you are unsure if you meet this definition, please get in touch with your local Manufacturing Growth Manager.
- Able to demonstrate the intention to grow/improve – (through creation of increased turnover, increased jobs and/or introduction of new products/services/processes)
Businesses operating mainly in the following sectors are unfortunately not eligible:
- fishery and aquaculture
- primary production, processing and marketing of agricultural products
- coal, steel and shipbuilding
- synthetic fibres
Suitability
To be suitable for the Manufacturing Growth Programme you must be able to demonstrate an intention to grow/improve. This may be through the creation of increased turnover, increased jobs, improved productivity and/or the introduction of a new product, service or process.
How much grant can be claimed and what can it be used for?
The grant is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) to support the cost of working with an external expert/coach of your choice to implement a pre-agreed Improvement project as detailed within your Action plan.
Grant values are specific to each business application.
Maximum project value of £10,000 with a minimum grant value of £1,000. Capital grants are available and will be considered for exceptional cases (subject to panel approval).
The % of grant funding support is based on each individual business case and supported by the Category of Region (more developed region or transitional region) these are based on Local Authorities.
The scope of support provided and action plan provided will be specific to each applicant’s growth needs and will be discussed in detail with their dedicated Manufacturing Growth Manager. It will typically cover:
- Expert consulting, coaching input – to analyse, recommend and support implementation of a Improvement/action Plan
- Associated other expenditure specifically related to achieving a Growth/ Improvement objective (eg small equipment, preparation for accreditation costs etc)
- Referrals to other business support to maximise growth potential
Grant supported Improvement projects must be completed, paid and claimed for within 4 months of grant confirmation.
SME beneficiaries are at liberty to select any consultant/coach of their choice, provided they can evidence and justify value for money in their selection