About us
The Fund’s mission is to promote the economic growth of Caithness and Sutherland by supporting new and existing businesses and developing the skill base to meet new challenges.
Grants up to £5,000 are currently available to support business start-ups, those with growth plans, training needs and some apprenticeships.
The FutureSkills apprenticeship scheme can provide financial support up to a maximum of £24,500 over 3 years.
The following Fund initiatives have been developed:
Apprenticeship Grants – These are available to businesses which can demonstrate a strong commitment to hosting a modern apprenticeship, providing a supportive pathway and desire to grow and create employment.
Any grant awarded will vary depending on the needs of each business, the apprenticeship being undertaken and the availability of any other funding.
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.
Business Start-Up Grants – These are available to anyone who can demonstrate both the potential and desire to grow their business and create employment. They are not available to lifestyle businesses unless they offer something unique to the area, which would benefit the area.
Business Growth Grants – These are available to any existing business which can demonstrate that the grant would result in the creation (not just retention) of new jobs.
Caithness Business Fund (CBF)
Caithness Business Fund (CBF) is a company limited by guarantee (SC450693).
CBF has been established to consider applications for grants in support of businesses in the Caithness and Sutherland area.
Caithness Chamber of Commerce manages the Fund through a Management Company Agreement with CBF and provides management and administrative services with respect to the Fund’s activities and is contracted to oversee the Fund on a day-to-day basis.
Policies
