Funding for rural businesses for equipment, infrastructure, digital, or other capital improvements
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has opened applications for the Rural Investment and Growth Fund, which brings new growth opportunities for rural businesses within the area.
The scheme can provide funding of up to 50% of costs for capital items up to a maximum of £20,000. The minimum grant awarded will be £10,000.
What can be funded
- new equipment/ machinery
- mobile machinery, such as scissor lifts, forklifts, push and ride-on lawn mowers, mini excavators
- IT equipment, for example, computers, laptops, printers
- computer software (outright purchase – staff training costs or ongoing license fees are not eligible)
- digitisation projects
- e-commerce websites to allow online purchase capabilities
Eligibility
This scheme is designed to support established businesses (legally registered and trading for at least six months) operating within the rural areas of Antrim and Newtownabbey.
Eligible business types include sole trader, partnership, limited company, or social enterprise with significant economic contribution.
Applications close at midnight on Friday 8 May 2026.
Find out more and apply for the Rural Investment and Growth Fund.
First published 14 April 2026