7 Business Grants in Edinburgh That Could Change Your Life (Or At Least Your Business)

Thinking about how to turn that killer idea into a thriving business in Edinburgh? Or maybe you’re just tired of eating instant noodles every night and want to give your startup the boost it desperately needs? Either way, you're in the right place. We’ve dug through the fine print, so you don’t have to. Here are seven business grants in Edinburgh that could help you make it big.

1. Edinburgh Business Growth Fund

Imagine if Tony Stark gave you a wad of cash to grow your business—well, the Edinburgh Business Growth Fund is kind of like that, without the suit and sarcasm.

• Eligibility: Small businesses with up to 50 employees
• Sector Focus: Open to all sectors
• Geographical Focus: Businesses must be based in Edinburgh
• Application Process: Complete an online form and submit your business plan
• Deadlines: Applications are reviewed quarterly
• Key Contact: Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce

2. Scottish EDGE

Think of Scottish EDGE as the Shark Tank of Scotland, minus the intimidating sharks and with more friendly unicorns.

• Eligibility: New startups and early-stage businesses
• Sector Focus: All sectors welcome, but innovation is key
• Geographical Focus: Must be headquartered in Scotland
• Application Process: Submit an online application, followed by a pitch if shortlisted
• Deadlines: Biannual submission windows
• Key Contact: Scottish EDGE team

3. Creative Edinburgh Awards

Are you the next Banksy or J.K. Rowling? Creative Edinburgh has got your back, literally.

• Eligibility: Creative industries including arts, design, media, and entertainment
• Sector Focus: Creative sector
• Geographical Focus: Edinburgh-based businesses
• Application Process: Fill out an application form and submit a portfolio of work
• Deadlines: Annual submission window
• Key Contact: Creative Edinburgh

4. Princes Trust Enterprise Programme

If you’re under 30 and feel like adulting is way overrated, the Princes Trust has a grant for you.

• Eligibility: Young entrepreneurs aged 18-30
• Sector Focus: Open to all sectors
• Geographical Focus: UK-wide, including Edinburgh
• Application Process: Attend an information session, followed by a business plan submission
• Deadlines: Rolling applications
• Key Contact: Princes Trust Edinburgh Office

5. Social Enterprise Fund

Are you a do-gooder with a heart of gold and a business plan to match? This one's for you.

• Eligibility: Social enterprises and non-profits
• Sector Focus: Social impact sectors
• Geographical Focus: Edinburgh and surrounding areas
• Application Process: Submit an online application detailing your social impact
• Deadlines: Quarterly review periods
• Key Contact: Social Enterprise Scotland

6. Innovate UK Grants

For all the mad scientists and garage tinkerers out there—Innovate UK wants to fund your next big breakthrough.

• Eligibility: Innovative businesses and startups
• Sector Focus: Technology, engineering, and innovation
• Geographical Focus: UK-wide, including Edinburgh
• Application Process: Online application with detailed project proposal
• Deadlines: Vary by competition round
• Key Contact: Innovate UK

7. Edinburgh Loans Fund

Okay, so this one’s technically a loan, but it’s a darn good one and worth mentioning.

• Eligibility: Small to medium-sized businesses
• Sector Focus: All sectors
• Geographical Focus: Edinburgh-based businesses
• Application Process: Apply online and provide financial statements
• Deadlines: Rolling applications
• Key Contact: Business Gateway Edinburgh