Frequently Asked Questions

To be eligible for the scheme, the business must:

• Pay business rates in Gravesham and/or business owner is a Gravesham resident

• Be either a small or micro business with 1-3 years trading history or a startup owner who has completed our one-day business startup course and had an appointment with our business advisor.

• Not in debt to Gravesham Borough Council (GBC) either as an individual or business

• Able to receive funds into a business bank account

This is a competitive process. A maximum of 30 small (£500) and 30 large (£750) grants are available in this financial year. Each quarter a panel of business mentors will be selecting the best six or seven applications to receive the grant funding based upon the strength of the project application.

Applications can be submitted through the online portal. Ensure you complete all sections of the application form and provide any required supporting documents.

Required documents may include a project plan, bank statements and or proof of eligibility,

Round 1 – closing date for applications June 14th, with awards being made on June 28th.

Round 2 – closing date for applications September 14th with awards being made on September 28.

Round 3 – closing date for applications December 14th with awards being made on January 3rd 2026.

Round 4 – closing date for applications March 14th 2026, with final awards being made on 28th March 2026.

As this is a competitive process, applications are assessed based on a scoring methodology that considers factors such as innovation, feasibility, economic impact, and alignment with our programme objectives. The assessment panel is made up of 3 independent Kent Foundation Mentors & is overseen by The Kent Foundation Director and their decision is final.

Yes, feedback can be provided for unsuccessful applications, and you may reapply in future funding rounds.

Grant funds can be used for a project which will allow your business to be better positioned to grow, innovate, and contribute to the local economy. Examples of grant fund spends can be:

• Purchase new specialist equipment.

• Workspace rent (new business space).

• Energy efficiency measures.

• Marketing (e.g., Facebook ads).

• Meeting room or venue hire.

• Training & Development costs

When assessing applications for grants we will prioritise those applications which will lead to growth rather than covering usual business costs.

Support is available through an appointment with a business advisor, book a session here

Yes, funds cannot be used for ineligible expenses such as debt repayment, activities or purchases you have already made, or activities outside the scope of the approved project submission. Full terms and conditions of this competitive grant process are available here

You can reach us through our contact form on the website