Apply for a rural business grant

About the grant

We have developed this grant to support existing rural businesses and organisations. It is to help them purchase capital equipment so that they can respond to the challenging trading environment caused by Covid-19.

Due to unprecedented demand, we closed this funding scheme at noon on 9 March.

We may close the application window early if we receive grant requests exceeding the amount of funding available.

Businesses can apply for between £3,000 and up to £25,000 grant towards a maximum of 75% of the total project cost. You can add up to five expenditure items per grant application but the total grant cannot exceed £25,000.

Projects must be completed within 90 days of the award of funding.

We are particularly keen to support businesses that provide essential services benefiting their local community. This includes village shops, post offices, pubs and other retail.

Projects should achieve at least one of the following:

  • diversification opportunities resulting in a new product or service
  • adapting to Covid-19 challenges and needs
  • becoming sustainable by updating physical infrastructure
  • developing and expanding sustainable rural tourism offers

One application per business is allowed.

Businesses that make an overall profit once fund income is included are subject to tax.

If your project is ineligible for this scheme you may be able to access an alternative Lincolnshire County Council grant.

For the latest business support information, as a result of Covid-19, visit GOV.uk