Firstport’s Social Enterprise Fund is now open for applications. These grants are designed to support social enterprises at different stages of development, from helping new social entrepreneurs test out an initial idea to providing funding which can support turning that idea into a full‑time role.

There are with three different funds to apply for: Start It, Community Enterprise Fund and Build It.

Start It: up to £5,000 towards start-up costs for individuals with a business idea that address a social, environmental and/or community issue.
Community Enterprise Fund (CEF): up to £5,000 towards start-up costs for constituted third sector or community groups looking to start a social enterprise, or begin trading.
Build It: up to £40,000 towards salaries for social enterprises up to 3 years old with a track record of trading and social impact.

There is no deadline for applications to Start It and the CEF; the next deadline for Build It applications will be Thursday 25 June.

For further information, including the full eligibility criteria and apply, please visit the Firstport website.