Staffordshire young entrepreneurs get grant support

Grants are available to help young entrepreneurs with start-up costs

Young entrepreneurs in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire can now apply for a grant to help them start a business.

The funding is being distributed by The Community Foundation for Staffordshire.

Applicants, who must be aged 18-30, need to be able to demonstrate a financial need and the steps their taking to get their business off the ground.

The scheme's backers say they are keen to support those who are not in education, employment or training.

'Leap of faith'

The grants of up to £2,000 will not need to be repaid by those who qualify for them.

Leanne Macpherson, head of programmes at the foundation, said: "Starting a business is challenging emotionally and financially and we hope this scheme will help make that leap of faith into entrepreneurship that little bit easier."

Funds will be made available for stock, equipment and materials as well as product development and one-off development costs, plus rent and business-related costs.

Companies and sole traders that have been in business for less than two years, owned by people aged 18-30, can apply online.