Caithness Business Fund is a private sector fund established to distribute grants to small businesses based within the Caithness and North Sutherland area (defined as the Dounreay Travel to Work Area)
The Fund's mission is to promote the economic growth of Caithness and North Sutherland by supporting new and existing businesses and developing the skill base to meet new challenges.
The Fund was created after discussions between Caithness Chamber of Commerce and Baillie Wind Farm Ltd who had a vision to see a wider area of Caithness and North Sutherland benefit from local wind farms.
The Fund promotes economic growth and assists small businesses through contributions it receives from developers and businesses either through a multi-year commitment or one-off contributions. The Fund’s main funder is Baillie Wind Farm Ltd which contributes £25,000 RPI per annum (a 25-year commitment), with additional contributions from Cavendish Nuclear, Dounreay and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority.
If you have an existing business or are looking to start a business, check if you are eligible to apply for a grant to assist your business development, employ an apprentice or upskill your workforce. Alternatively if you are a business, developer or individual who would like to find out how the Fund can assist you in making an investment in Caithness contact us on 01847 500104 or see our Funder's Brief
Assistance from the Fund is helping to “level up” access to apprenticeships for small-to-medium enterprises in the North Highlands, ensuring businesses and organisations of all sizes are equipped with skills needed both now and in the future. Eligible SMEs can access grants of up to £5,000 from the Fund to help with employment and associated training costs for accredited apprenticeship opportunities within their business.
Apprenticeship Grants - These are available to businesses which can demonstrate a clear desire to grow and create employment and give evidence of additionality.
Training Grants – These are available to businesses seeking to provide relevant courses for their employees and can clearly demonstrate a linkage to business growth and development.
Full information on criteria for Apprenticeship & Training Grants can be found in the application guidelines.
| Meeting date | Details | Closing date |
|---|---|---|
| 14/12/2023 | Funding application date | 23/11/2023 5:00 pm |
Caithness Business Fund
Naver Business Centre, Naver House, Naver Road, Thurso, Caithness, KW14 7QA
Registered in Scotland: SC450693
