Business grants available for young entrepreneurs
Getty ImagesYoung entrepreneurs across Cumbria have been invited to apply for grants of up to £2,000 to boost their businesses.
The funding, offered by SWEF, a community interest company, is available to people aged between 18 and 30 who have been up and running for less than two years.
It is the first time the grant, which is being managed by the Cumbria Community Foundation, has been made available in the county.
The foundation's director of programmes and partnerships, Dr Jenny Benson, said it was a "fantastic opportunity" for young entrepreneurs to "get a foot on the business ladder".
"Examples of what the funding could be spent on include equipment to help increase profit, materials or stock, product development and building a website," she said.
The fund is available to those who face financial challenges preventing them from developing their business.
Smaller grants of up to £500 are also available to those launching a new business.
SWEF said it aimed to support 500 young entrepreneurs to develop their business each year.
Grant manager Lally Holme said she was "excited to see which businesses apply".
The closing date for applications is 16 May.