"I’m happy to be able to share an update on the success of the Bucks Rural Business Grant as the funding stream comes to a close.

"The Bucks Rural Business Grant, funded through the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF), has committed £1.8m in grants to businesses over the last 18 months, helping a range of rural businesses that support farm diversification, tourism, manufacturing, forestry, and local food and drink activities. 

"In total, the programme has supported 30 businesses, leveraging over £6.5m in total investment. This combined investment is forecast to create at least 114 full-time equivalent jobs within rural Buckinghamshire, showing why capital grant programmes such as this are a significant boost to the rural economy and vital for many businesses to develop. 

"While this opportunity is ending, do stay in contact and keep me updated on any projects you may have planned for the year ahead. I will endeavour to support where possible and provide information on any relevant grants.

"Please get in contact if you want to discuss anything regarding planning, projects or funding. Email me at [email protected] or call on 01494 927167 / 07802 411040."

Visit the Rural Ngage webpage for further information and support.

About the Bucks Rural Business Grant (BRBG)

The Bucks Rural Business Grant is a capital grants programme for rural businesses funded through the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) by Defra.

It follows on from the EU-funded LEADER Programme and Growth Programme, both of which were part of the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE).

Just over £1.8 million was allocated across the two-year programme to help Buckinghamshire's rural businesses with building costs and equipment. The entire £1.8 million has been committed to businesses.

The funding is delivered by Buckinghamshire Council, with Buckinghamshire Business First supporting businesses through the application process.

What is the aim of the programme?

To create opportunities for businesses to start, grow, and increase employment opportunities.

This will be achieved through small-scale investment in micro and small enterprises in rural areas*, including capital funding for net zero infrastructure for rural businesses, and diversification of farm businesses (non-agriculture), to encourage start up, expansion or scale up of these businesses where this involves converting farm buildings into other commercial or business uses.

What kinds of projects can be funded?

Typical projects eligible for funding include, but are not limited to:

• farm diversification
• tourism initiatives
• food and drink processing
• forestry
• other rural enterprises

Grant information

• Individual grant amounts will be from £2,500 to £300,000.
• Grants will initially be offered at 40% of the total eligible project value.

Do you need any help with projects, planning, funding?

Contact Will Dallimore, Rural Business Development Manager at Buckinghamshire Business First, to talk through projects you may have planned for the year ahead.

Call 01494 927167 / 07802 411040 or email [email protected].