Financial Assistance Scheme

The Department of Economic Development’s Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) aims to encourage diversification of the local economy. The FAS provides a range of grants and soft loan support to eligible businesses that can meet the commercial and environmental criteria laid down.

The FAS is a key tool to encourage existing businesses to adopt new technologies and practices and for new businesses to develop on the island. The opportunity exists not only to encourage new projects but also to develop projects in conjunction with private sector partnerships and contacts.

The FAS is discretionary and can offer a generous package of support to qualifying businesses. Assistance available includes:

Capital Grants

Up to 40% of costs of new buildings, building improvements, new plant and machinery, including hardware and software

Operating Grants

Up to 40% of non-recurring costs associated with the establishment of a project
Up to 40% of the costs of specific new marketing ventures
Up to 40% of the costs of implementing quality standards, energy conservation etc.
Up to 40% of the cost of renting a factory from a private developer for the initial period of a new project

Training grants are considered, but must relate to a project with which financial assistance is being given.

The above incentives apply to existing and new ventures and can be applied for on an annual basis. Applicants should make clear to the Department the likely frequency and nature of potential future applications to help assess the appropriate level of support.

Eligibility

The Department of Economic Development may provide assistance to an eligible business where, in its opinion, the eligible business undertakes, or will undertake, an economic activity in the Island; the assistance is likely to encourage sustainable economic growth in the Island; and the form and amount of the assistance is reasonable having regard to all the circumstances. Please refer to the Financial Assistance Scheme Guidelines for further information.

Contact

Further detailed information on all aspects of the Financial Assistance Scheme can be viewed within the Financial Assistance Scheme Guidelines and application forms can be viewed in downloadable documents below.

Alternatively, contact Dave Kelly, Development Executive, on +44 (0)1624 687177.

Downloadable Documents