£10m Hospitality Grant Scheme: announced deadline has passed

What is the funding meant to support?

The Department for Business says the scheme is intended to help launch new hospitality ventures, bring vacant premises back into use and support training programmes. It also highlights productivity, sustainability, opportunities for young people and support for people furthest from the labour market.

Who should take a serious look?

Independent hospitality operators, entrepreneurs, sector organisations and delivery partners with a clear project should check the official guidance. A strong fit is more likely where the proposal creates a measurable outcome—such as opening a viable venue, restoring unused space, improving a process or delivering training—rather than simply covering ordinary running costs.

What an application needed

1. Write the problem in one sentence: what is currently empty, blocked, inefficient or missing?
2. Describe the project, who it helps and what will be different after delivery.
3. Build a realistic budget, including any match funding and VAT treatment.
4. Set out a delivery timetable and confirm the people or partners involved.
5. Choose simple outcomes you can evidence, such as jobs, learners, premises opened, time saved or new community services.
6. Check state-aid or subsidy-control questions and obtain professional advice where needed.
7. For any future round, leave time to register for the application portal and deal with missing documents before its published deadline.

What if a further round opens?

Apply only if the project matches the published purpose and can be delivered credibly. A rushed, vague bid can consume valuable trading time. A short go/no-go check—eligibility, project fit, evidence, budget and deadline—should come before writing a long application.