Grants and Loans
Local Grants
The Agency offers a few small grants to local businesses in the areas of skills development, training, innovation, product research and development and market research within our target sectors. These range from £200 - £5,000 and are subject to availability each year. Application details are available on request. Our emphasis is on supporting key sectors for growth.
A special package is available for young people ( 16 - 25 ) wishing to start up in business.
No grants are offered to inward investors directly.
Local Loans
Local businesses are advised to go to the Bank of St Helena (BOSH) for business development loans info@sainthelenabank.com . In exceptional cases the Agency may be able to provide a Economic Development Fund Loan for business start up or diversification. Application details can be sought once evidence of refusal from the Bank is provided. Again, we recommend that you contact us for advice first. Funds are very limited.
Advice, Support and Information Services
The Agency can offer general advice and information to people wanting to start up or expand an existing business. Topics covered include:
- Company formation
- How to prepare a business plan
- How to raise investment capital
- How to submit a good tender
- How to set up a computerised accounting package
- Help with annual accounts - first year of trading only
- Pricing policy
- Market research
- Marketing and Promotion
- Risk minimisation
- Premises identification