Two Local Economic Partnership grant schemes are open, with support available for business growth, investment and enterprise development projects.

Applications are now open for two Derry City and Strabane District Council Local Economic Partnership grant schemes, funded by the Department for the Economy.

The LEP Business Transformation Grant 2026-27 is aimed at micro and small businesses in the Derry and Strabane area. It supports capital investment and sustainability projects that can help businesses grow, improve productivity, increase capacity or strengthen competitiveness.

Grants of between £5,000 and £25,000 are available, with support covering up to 70% of eligible costs. Businesses must provide at least 30% match funding.

Members should note that attendance to one pre application workshop is optional as part of the Business Transformation Grant application process. Any business interested in applying should check the Council application page carefully and contact the funding team if they have not already attended a workshop.

The Business Transformation Grant closes at 12 noon on Thursday 16th July 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

A second scheme, the LEP Enterprise Partnership Fund, is also open. This fund supports innovative and experimental enterprise development projects delivered in partnership with the local entrepreneurship ecosystem and the Local Economic Partnership.

Grants of up to £15,000 are available, with applicants required to provide at least 25% match funding. Each project must have a lead partner responsible for delivery, management and administration.

The Enterprise Partnership Fund closes at 12 noon on Thursday 16th July 2026.

Both schemes are competitive, and applicants should ensure they have the required documentation, quotations and match-funding evidence in place before submitting. No project spend should take place before a formal Letter of Offer is issued.

The Takeaway:

Businesses and enterprise partners interested in these funds should check eligibility and submit applications well ahead of the July deadlines.

Key Info:

  • Opening date: 9th June 2026
  • Closing date: 16th July 2026 at 12noon
  • Applications via dedicated online portal
LEP Business Transformation Grant 2026-27 LEP Enterprise Partnership Fund
Who it is for Micro and small businesses in the Derry and Strabane area Partnership-led enterprise development projects
Funding available £5,000-£25,000 Up to £15,000
Grant rate 70% grant support 75% grant support
Match funding required Minimum 30% match funding Minimum 25% match funding
Deadline 12 noon, Thursday 16th July 2026 12 noon, Thursday 16th July 2026
Key action Attendance at one pre-application workshop is mandatory as part of the application process Identify a lead partner responsible for delivery, management and administration
Applicant Guidelines LEP Business Transformation Grant Guidelines.pdf LEP Partnership Fund Guidelines.pdf