Funding

From national government grants to unique award schemes, through research and development programmes to business start-up support loans, Knowledge Dock can help you acquire the funding you need to kick-start your company.

 

Working closely in partnership with funding bodies on a regional, national and international scale, we can keep you informed about the latest funding initiatives for supporting your business growth. This includes funding opportunities that deploy academic and professional business support, including Knowledge Dock’s many specialist facilities and services.

 

Whether you are a social enterprise situated in an economically challenged area, or if your business is pushing towards technical innovation, Knowledge Dock can provide the practical support for writing loan and grant proposals, or refer you on to the appropirate funding institutions fthat you or your needs. 

 

Knowledge Dock is committed to finding the right avenue of support for you. Listed below are current funding initiatives that may be of use to your company:

 

SME Innovation Support Programme – Supported by the London Development Agency (LDA) and European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), this grant-aided scheme is designed to stimulate growth of SMEs in the London Objective 2 areas through developments in product, process, technology and business practices.

Investigating an Innovative Idea – Funded by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Investigating an Innovative Idea is an opportunity for entrepreneurs to professionally pursue their technological and innovative ideas. The funding is intended for you to investigate and develop a professional business plan to move your ideas from paper into product.

Research and Development Grants – Government funded through both the DTI and the LDA, these grants have the practical focus of developing technologically innovative products and processes, from manufacturing prototypes to full commercial realisation.

Through support from Knowledge Dock, you can gain access to business support loans. Ranging from £5,000 to £25,000, these loans are made available through mainstream support agencies such as One London or the East London Small Business Centre.

 

Smaller support loans are also available for community organisations and start-ups, as made available through members of the Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI).

For business start-ups, loans can be a daunting prospect, a venture that remains dependent on factors such as equity and individual circumstances. With so many variables to consider, Knowledge Dock’s staff can advise you on the loan options available to you from mainstream banks.

For further information about the latest funding opporunities, please contact us.