The South West RDA delivers Grant for Business Investment (GBI) aimed at businesses of all sizes looking to invest in assisted areas that need a grant to take their vision forward.

click here for link to SWRDA website

The scheme focuses support on high-quality, innovative, knowledge-based projects that lead to long-term improvements in productivity, skills and employment in South West England. The majority of jobs created are expected to be at NVQ Level 2 and above.

Projects such as launching a new business, expanding existing companies, introducing new technology into manufacturing, or taking a new product from its early stages all the way through to production will be eligible for support.

Each application has to meet certain criteria:

* Projects must be located in an assisted area and the South West RDA's priority places
* Demonstrate strong additionality (need for grant) and proven need for financial support
* Display quality features, such as good skills levels and productivity growth in Gross Value Added
* Projects must be funded mainly by the applicant or from other private sector sources
* Projects must involve capital investment on fixed assets such as property or machinery
* Projects must create new jobs or safeguard existing employment above the average skill levels
* Projects should be viable, competitive and profitable
* Projects should not be irrevocably committed prior to the application
* Projects should provide positive benefits to both the regional and national economy.
* Supply markets other than local without displacement of similar businesses
* Contribute towards the RDA's low carbon commitment

The minimum threshold for grant applications is £10,000. Grants up to £2 million will be appraised within the South West RDA and referred to the South West Investment Panel. Any projects needing grants over £2 million will be appraised by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS).