Having a strong online presence is no longer optional – it’s essential for small businesses and non-profit organisations looking to thrive. But many small, local organisations face financial challenges when building or updating a professional website.
If you’re struggling to grow without a strong online presence, a new or redesigned website (along with smarter digital marketing projects) can be a powerful way to connect with your audience and make your brand stand out – without putting pressure on your budget. That’s where the High Street Boost Grant comes in.
We understand that running a small business or medium enterprise comes with a unique set of challenges that big companies and corporations often avoid – from limited resources and funds to struggling to get the attention of your target audience.
Learn more about the High Street Boost Grant below, or click here to apply with Encapsulate Group’s support.
Stafford Council High Street Boost Grant
The good news is that local SMEs don’t have to face these challenges alone. The Stafford Council and UK Shared Prosperity Fund’s High Street Boost Grant offers the opportunity to access funding between a minimum of £2,000 and up to £20,000 to help local businesses invest in a professional website, digital marketing projects, and other improvements that strengthen their brand and attract more customers.
This grant covers up to 80% of project costs and is designed to support independent businesses located within the high streets and surrounding streets of Stafford, Stone, and Eccleshall. Eligible projects include website design, social media campaigns, renovation costs, and shop front enhancements – all aimed at boosting high-street traffic and strengthening the local economy… And, most importantly, helping your business stand out.
The grant aims to make town centres more attractive and appealing to the local community, and to expand the visitor economy by bringing in more traffic to the area, with eligible businesses demonstrating the ability to attract visitors to the high street, bring awareness to the town centre and create jobs for the local economy.
This High Street Boost Grant ensures your website and digital marketing materials serve your customers, showcase your services and strengthen your presence in the local community.
Benefits of the High Street Boost Grant
The High Street Boost Grant gives you the tools and support you need to strengthen your online presence and digital marketing materials, so your business can achieve more online, stand out locally, and boost the traffic within your community. Here’s how:
- Enhance your online presence – Launch a professional website that truly captures attention and engages your audience
- Stand out locally – Improve your shop front and marketing materials to shine in your community
- Boost high-street traffic – Attract more visitors and support your thriving local economy
- Save on costs – With up to 80% of costs covered, you can grow your business without adding pressure to your budget
- Strengthen your brand – Showcase your products and services in a way that captures attention and builds trust
How to Apply for a Grant
Eligibility Criteria
Understanding eligibility criteria is critical when applying for a grant. Organisations need to meet specific requirements set by the grant providers, which can vary. General criteria include:
- Entity Type: such as small businesses, non-profits, or educational institutions
- Location: Operating within specific geographical areas or countries
- Purpose: The project must align with the mission and objectives of the grant provider
- Financial Need: Many grants require organisations to demonstrate financial need to justify the grant
Checking each grant’s specific eligibility conditions is essential to ensure the application’s success.
Steps to Apply
Applying for a grant might feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into easy steps makes the process more manageable:
- Research Grants that align with your organisation’s goals and ambitions
- Prepare your documents, such as financial statements, project proposals, and proof of eligibility
- Complete your application accurately, providing detailed descriptions of the planned project
- Submit your application in line with the guidelines, double-checking everything is included before the deadline
- Follow up once submitted, keeping track of progress and providing extra details if requested.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make the application process much smoother and increase your chances of success. We’ve broken down these mistakes into key areas to focus on, so you can make sure your grant application has the best chance of success:
- Complete your application thoroughly – Make sure all forms are filled out carefully, providing complete information
- Meet all deadlines – Keep your application running smoothly and professionally by submitting your application before the deadline.
- Follow the guidelines closely – Clearly follow instructions, including document formats and submission processes, so your application meets the grant provider’s expectations
- Demonstrate your need clearly – Clearly explain why your organisation needs the grant, supporting your case with clear evidence and context
By keeping these points in mind, you’ll not only avoid common mistakes but also submit a confident, strong application.
For full terms and conditions about the application and approvals process, you can download the ‘UK Shared Prosperity Fund High Street Boost Grant (Round 2) Policy’ document.
Ready to Apply?
At Encapsulate Group, we’re dedicated to empowering local businesses to grow and succeed. That’s why we’re here to guide eligible SMEs through the High Street Boost Grant application process and provide expert support with web design and digital marketing projects to help your business thrive.
If your business is eligible and you would like to apply, our team is here to help.
