Hospitality Grant Fund launched to support local businesses

Harborough District Council has launched the Harborough District Hospitality Grant Fund. Funded directly by the council, the scheme will provide capital grants of between £5,000 and £25,000 to eligible independent hospitality businesses.

The scheme aims to support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and sole traders operating within the district.

Grants can be used for capital projects designed to improve business operations, increase capacity and enhance sustainability.

Eligible projects may include:

• Expanding outdoor dining areas
• Upgrading commercial kitchens
• Refurbishing guest accommodation
• Installing energy-efficient technology, such as solar panels and smart energy management systems.

The fund supports the council's corporate priorities and the ambitions set out in the Harborough District Economic Development Strategy 2024 to 2031 by encouraging economic growth, supporting sustainable development and helping businesses invest in the future.

Successful applicants can receive up to 75% of eligible project costs, with businesses required to contribute a minimum of 25% match funding. Applicants must be independent businesses that have been trading within Harborough district for at least 12 months.

The scheme will open for applications on 24 August 2026 and will close for applications on 30 November 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as and when they are submitted. The council reserves the right to close the scheme early if the funding is fully allocated before the advertised close date.

Cllr Rosita Page, Cabinet Lead for Business and Tourism, said: “Hospitality businesses play an important role in the local economy, supporting employment, attracting visitors and contributing to the vibrancy of our towns and villages.

"This new grant fund will help eligible businesses invest in improvements that can support future growth, enhance customer experiences and improve environmental sustainability.

“I would encourage any eligible hospitality business interested in applying to contact the council's Economic Development team to discuss their proposal.”

Applications must be submitted online through the GrantApproval portal. All applications will be subject to eligibility checks and assessment against a range of criteria, including economic impact, deliverability, value for money and sustainability.

Grant funding will be paid on completion of the approved project.

Businesses are encouraged to contact the council's Economic Development team before submitting an application to discuss their project and confirm eligibility.

For more information, including guidance notes, eligibility criteria and details of how to apply, visit current grants for businesses on the Harborough District Council website at: www.harborough.gov.uk/info/20070/grants_for_businesses/498/grants_for_businesses