The SWEF Enterprise Fund

Young people in Northern Ireland can receive up to £2,000 for developing their business idea

The Community Foundation for Northern Ireland, in partnership with the SWEF Enterprise Fund, supports young people to access investments they may not otherwise afford.

Grants of up to £2,000 are available for young entrepreneurs who are running a business or planning to start one soon. The grants aim to assist in developing business ideas and helping businesses grow and become more sustainable.

Who can apply?

To be eligible to apply, you need to:

• be between 18 and 30 year-olds
• live in Northern Ireland
• be running a business that has been trading for no more than two years or planning to start one soon
• be from a low-income household or facing financial challenges that prevent you from developing your business

What can you apply for?

The grant can be used for:

• equipment
• materials
• product development
• stock for a new product line
• one-off costs such as website development or other services

You can't apply for salary or living costs, debt repayment, rent and utilities, stock for an existing product line, or ongoing software subscriptions.

How to apply

If you meet the criteria, you can apply for a grant of up to £2,000. If you request £500 or less and your application is successful, you may apply for a second grant later. 

You can submit your application online entering details about your business and explaining how the grant will help its success or growth.

Applications are encouraged from underrepresented groups in business, including individuals on low incomes, women, migrants, ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and those with few or no formal qualifications.

Help and support from the Community Foundation NI

Before applying, you should read the full guidelines on the SWEF Enterprise Fund.

For further information and support you can call Tel: 02890 245927 or email applications@communityfoundationni.org.
 
First published 28 June 2024.