.page-id-646

Business Funding

Invest East Lothian can help businesses identify funding opportunities to support start-up, growth, innovation and investment plans. Whether you're launching a new venture, expanding operations or investing in new technology, our team can help you navigate the funding landscape and connect with the most relevant programmes.

Available grants, loans and investment programmes change regularly. Therefore, businesses should always check eligibility criteria and application guidance directly with the funding provider before applying.

To stay informed about the latest funding opportunities, sign up to our newsletter or contact the Invest East Lothian team.

East Lothian Funding Finder Portal

Finding the right business funding can make a significant difference to growth, investment and long-term resilience. That's why Invest East Lothian provides businesses with free access to the East Lothian Funding Finder Portal, a powerful online tool designed to help identify relevant funding opportunities quickly and easily.

The portal brings together grants, loans, investment opportunities and other sources of business funding in one convenient location. As a result, businesses can save valuable time and access the most up-to-date funding information available.

Through the portal, you can:

  • Access a comprehensive and regularly updated directory of funding opportunities.
  • Stay informed about the latest funding news, programmes and policy updates.
  • Search opportunities by business size, sector and location.
  • Review key eligibility criteria and application details before applying.
  • Connect directly with funding providers where appropriate.

Whether you're starting a business, investing in innovation, expanding your operations or developing new products and services, the East Lothian Funding Finder Portal can help you discover funding opportunities that match your ambitions.

Share Your Success Story

Have you secured funding through the East Lothian Funding Finder Portal? We'd love to hear about your experience and celebrate your success. Email: [email protected]

Funding opportunities

East Lothian Investments Ltd

East Lothian Investments Ltd is a not-for-profit organisation that provides interest-free loans to businesses based in East Lothian. The company is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and supports businesses at all stages of development.

Key features include:

  • Loans of up to £25,000
  • Repayment terms of up to 5 years
  • 0% interest with small upfront arrangement fee
  • Available to businesses across all sectors
  • Capital repayment holidays available

Further Funding Opportunities

Start-up & SME Finance

Scottish Edge

Scottish EDGE is Scotland's largest business funding competition and supports start-ups, social enterprises and charities. Successful applicants can access a combination of grant and loan funding of up to £100,000. The competition typically runs twice each year.

Find out more

Start Up Loans

Start Up Loans offers government-backed loans to help entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses. Eligible applicants can borrow up to £25,000, with repayment periods of up to five years.

Find out more

Larger-Scale Investment Funding

Scottish National Investment Bank

The Scottish National Investment Bank supports ambitious businesses and projects seeking significant investment. Funding is generally aimed at organisations requiring more than £1 million in debt or equity finance.

Find out more

Scottish Enterprise Funding Opportunities

Scottish Enterprise provides access to a range of funding and investment programmes, including equity investment and co-investment opportunities for businesses with growth potential.

Find out more

Technology and Innovation Funding

Techstart Scotland

Techstart Scotland supports early-stage technology businesses with seed funding and investment designed to help innovative companies scale and grow.

Find out more

Interface

Interface offers funding programmes that connect businesses with Scotland's universities, colleges and research expertise. These opportunities can help companies develop new products, services and innovative solutions.

Find out more

Social Enterprise & Third Sector Funding

Firstport

Firstport provides grant funding for social entrepreneurs and social enterprises. Funding awards typically range from £5,000 to £50,000 and are designed to help organisations start and grow.

Find out more

Social Investment Scotland

Social Investment Scotland offers tailored funding solutions of up to £1 million for social enterprises, charities and purpose-led organisations.

Find out more

Energy & Sustainability Funding

Business Energy Scotland SME Loan Scheme

Businesses investing in energy efficiency measures can apply for loans of up to £100,000, along with cashback grants of up to £30,000 for eligible projects.

Find out more

Zero Waste Scotland

Zero Waste Scotland provides funding and support for businesses committed to sustainability, resource efficiency and circular economy projects.

Find out more