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15 November 2018

Access for UK SMEs to Manufacturing Growth Grants

AILU is pleased to inform members of the availability of funding towards the costs of working with an external expert/coach to implement growth or business improvement action plans.

The Manufacturing Growth Programme (MGP) Grant scheme provides free advice and support to manufacturing SMEs including:

  • An independent business review to identify opportunities for business improvement and growth
  • A detailed action plan guiding you through the process of improving your business
  • Access to matched industry experts to provide consultancy and/or coaching tailored to your needs
  • Access to grants to co-fund your growth/improvement project

The grants are funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).  An average project value of £4,000 of support would attract up to a 35% Grant contribution (Minimum grant applications accepted: £1000). Larger grants may be considered for exceptional cases (subject to panel approval) for projects demonstrating significant job/new product growth and higher level of applicant contribution (ie >65%).

The scope of the Growth/Improvement plan will be specific to each applicant’s growth needs and will be agreed in advance with a Manufacturing Growth Manager. It will typically cover:

  • Expert consulting/coaching input – to analyse, recommend and support implementation of a Growth/Improvement Plan
  • Associated other expenditure specifically related to achieving a Growth/ Improvement objective (eg preparation for accreditation costs)

Grants can cover aspects of business strategy, finance, marketing, quality and environmental areas among others and could be used towards implementation of new accreditations

Projects are implemented through a 19-strong network of experienced Manufacturing Growth Managers (MGM) that work with the SME manufacturers and create plans for growth and improvement. Manufacturers have access to industry specialists to implement those growth plans and the opportunity to apply for an average grant of up to 35% of the total project cost.

Grant supported Growth/Improvement projects must be completed, paid and claimed for within 4 months of grant confirmation.  The current round of grants runs out on 31 March 2019.

SME beneficiaries are at liberty to select any consultant/coach of their choice provided they can evidence a business case for a grant supported consultancy project and justify value for money in their selection.

Contact Dave MacLellan at AILU to find out more and be put in contact with the team.


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