Funding for all rural businesses great and small

Looking to start, grow or improve a rural business in Yorkshire? If so, you could be eligible for funding support from the Rural Development Programme for England.

In conjunction with Business Link, a new campaign by Yorkshire Forward is making rurally-based businesses aware of the funding that’s available.

Not a traditional farming business? Don’t let that put you off. Any enterprise - great or small - in a nominated rural postcode can apply. This includes those in tourism and leisure, food and drink, creative industries, forestry and woodland, renewable energy or horticulture.

Three different funds depending on your needs

1. Starting a new business or growing an existing one – the Rural Enterprise Investment Programme can provide funds of £25,000 or more – click here to find out about the REIP

2. Introducing new technology to promote efficiency – The Farm Resource Efficiency Programme can provide up to 40% of the costs of eligible expenditure (up to £25,000) for capital equipment such as renewable power, heat, rainwater harvesting or manure management – click here to find out about the FREP 

3. Starting a new rural enterprise – The Rural Business Support Programme can provide funds of up to £25,000 to any rurally based business start-up or new venture within an existing business – click here to find out about the RBSP

“Thanks to Yorkshire Forward’s assistance and support we are now in a position to attract new clients and we are intent on proving that Yorkshire companies don’t need to go to London to get a high quality product.” Richard Critchlow, Dependable Productions Benefited from Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) support, delivered by Yorkshire Forward.

Easy to apply online
Applying for the funds is easy. There’s a handy online postcode checker and step-by-step guide to applying - click here to find out more