SWEF Enterprise Fund for Young Entrepreneurs (Dorset)

Dorset Community Foundation's SWEF Enterprise Fund gives grants to people aged 18 to 30 living in Dorset who need financial help to launch or develop a business in its first two and a half years of trading. Start-up grants of up to £500 are for businesses that are about to trade or earning under £500 a month, and business grants of up to £2,000 are for businesses already trading and earning more. Start-up grantees can apply for a business grant at least six months later once the business has progressed. No business plan is needed, but you need a reference from someone who knows your business and skills, and evidence that you have already taken real steps, such as market research, a social media presence or early spending. If a limited company, you must hold at least half the shares. The grant is not a loan and applications are made through the foundation's portal.