Expressions of Interest have opened for the South Midlands Growth Grants, a new funding package designed to help businesses across Northamptonshire invest in innovation, new tech and low-carbon projects. The grants aim to support firms looking to accelerate growth, improve productivity and strengthen long-term competitiveness.
The scheme offers two separate funding streams. The Capital Growth Grant provides between £5,000 and £50,000 for SMEs planning capital projects that drive innovation or support decarbonisation. The Micro Capital Grant offers £300 to £3,000 for sole traders, micro businesses and early-stage enterprises aiming to adopt new tech or develop new products or services. Both require 50% match funding and businesses may apply for only one grant.
Ruth Roan, Growth Hub Manager, said the programme reflects the ambition and potential within the region’s business community. “Businesses across the South Midlands are ambitious and forward-thinking, and these grants will help them take the next step,” said Ruth. “We want to support companies that are ready to innovate, adopt new technologies and strengthen their green credentials. This funding is designed to remove barriers, accelerate growth and create a positive, long-term impact on our local economy.”
The programme is open to companies based in North Northamptonshire, West Northamptonshire, Milton Keynes, Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire and Luton. Before submitting a full application, firms must complete an Expression of Interest by 17:00 on Wednesday 17 December 2025. Approved applicants will then be invited to submit a full proposal, with successful projects expected to begin from late February 2026.
The grants are designed to support projects that deliver clear economic and environmental benefits. These may include bringing new products or services to market, introducing new processes or investing in equipment that enables greener operations. Projects contributing to carbon reduction will need to provide a decarbonisation plan on completion.
The scheme aligns with local priorities set by councils across the South Midlands, including encouraging productive and innovative economies, supporting higher-value jobs, strengthening sustainability and helping businesses transition to a green economy. For Northamptonshire specifically, the focus includes mobility, innovation, logistics, net-zero technologies and raising aspirations through stronger links between business and employment.
Eligible costs include machinery, equipment, diversification into new products, improvements to commercial premises, software and website development where these provide long-term economic benefit. Routine operational costs, vehicle purchases, like-for-like replacements and pre-approval expenditure are not eligible.
Applications will be assessed competitively, with panels reviewing each proposal’s clarity, value for money, impact and deliverability. Businesses can find full guidance and submit their Expression of Interest via the South Midlands Growth Hub website.
