If you’re a small business in North Northamptonshire with fewer than 49 employees, there is a golden opportunity you shouldn’t miss.

North Northamptonshire Council has just launched a match fund offering capital grants between £5,000 and £25,000. This is Round 1 of the Business Growth Grant Scheme, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and the deadline is 8am, Monday 23 June 2025. Whether you’re looking to install solar panels, battery storage systems, or EV chargers, this fund could help transform your business – and cut your energy bills for years to come.

What Can the Grant Fund?

The aim of this scheme is to help small businesses grow, innovate, and reduce costs. Here’s what it can cover:

✅ Solar panels and renewable energy systems
✅ Battery storage for solar-generated electricity
✅ Electric vehicle (EV) chargers for fleet or customer use
✅ Energy-efficient machinery and commercial equipment
✅ Infrastructure improvements to commercial premises

According to the council, this funding is specifically aimed at supporting projects that enhance productivity, innovation, and help businesses transition to Net Zero. Their guidance highlights that:

“Innovation is important for businesses and a priority for the scheme. This could include… improvements to reduce energy costs or emissions…”

Who Can Apply?

You’re eligible if:

• You are a micro or small business (fewer than 49 employees)

• You have been trading for at least 12 months

• Your business is based in North Northamptonshire (check your location on the NNC interactive map on their grants page)

• You can match at least 50% of the funding cost

• Your project will finish before 31 January 2026

Important: This grant is for capital projects only — that means things like equipment, building works or installations. It cannot be used for working capital, vehicle purchases, or staffing costs.

Why Consider Energy Projects?

Energy bills remain a major concern for businesses. Installing solar panels, batteries, or EV infrastructure helps to:

• Lower energy costs long-term

• Increase business resilience

• Reduce environmental impact

• Make a visible commitment to sustainability

• Future-proof your premises for upcoming green regulations

This is directly aligned with Mission 2 of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund:

“Make Britain a clean energy superpower”

Plus, applications with a positive impact on Net Zero goals will be scored more favourably by the assessment panel.

How to Apply

To request an application form, email:
📩 ukspf@northnorthants.gov.uk
Include your name, business name, and business address.

📅 Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 8am on Monday 23 June 2025
⏱️ Projects must be completed and paid for by 31 January 2026

Top Tips for a Strong Application

• Be clear and simple — avoid technical jargon

• Get three quotes for any expenditure over £5,000

• Highlight how your project supports growth, resilience, and sustainability

• Explain how the grant will unlock innovation or efficiency

• Confirm your match funding is ready and available

Final Thoughts

With grants of up to £25,000 available, this is a brilliant chance to invest in your business, cut energy costs, and lead the way in green innovation. But you’ll need to move fast  –  applications close Monday 23 June at 8am and competition is expected to be strong.

If you’re ready to take a smart step toward sustainability, this fund could make it happen.

👉 Request your form now: ukspf@northnorthants.gov.uk
💡 Need help with your application? Get in touch with our team for support.

For full details, visit: Business Growth Grant Scheme – NNC Website