Grants now available for independent businesses
A new package of business support measures was approved by Full Council on 25 February 2026. The match‑funded grants of up to £2,500 and free one‑to‑one advice will help new and existing independent businesses invest confidently in equipment, premises and improvements that support long-term stability.
The new schemes are open for applications from today.
The suite of grants includes provision for both new and existing businesses, with some tightly focused on enhancing the three town centres. All grants are 50/50 match funded, meaning the council will cover up to half of the costs of a project, and the business covers the remaining costs.
Grants are only awarded following careful assessment of the business's plans, evidencing how the grant will support growth. Projects that focus on improving the businesses' environmental credentials will be prioritised.
Two of the grants are open to independent businesses of all types across the district and focus on new ventures and growth:
- the 'Business Start Up Grant', offers up to £2,000 for new businesses and pre‑start entrepreneurs, helping fund equipment and essential resources needed to launch a viable business
- the 'General Business Grant' offers up to £2,500 for existing independent businesses to invest in equipment and improvements that strengthen operations, enhance productivity or support business development
Two further grants focus on improving key streets in the town centres of Arundel, Bognor Regis and Littlehampton
- the 'Shopfront Improvement Grant' offers up to £2,000 for businesses of all types in ground floor units to improve the appearance of their premises
- the 'Retail Start Up Grant' offers up to £2,500 to encourage eligible retail businesses to take on new bricks and mortar premises
In addition to grants, pre-start, newly established and existing businesses of all types across the district will continue to benefit from free, in-person one-to-one business support. This scheme provides up to three hours of tailored assistance, plus follow‑up guidance from a highly knowledgeable business expert.
Elected council members also approved an increase to the existing Section 49 Hardship Grant provision, offering one‑off reductions in business rates for businesses experiencing genuine financial hardship.
A reminder that the new grant schemes are open for applications from now.
Full details of each grant, eligibility and how to apply are available at: Business grants and funding | Arun District Council