Are you a small business based in a rural area of the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough? If so, you could be eligible for funding through the latest Rural Business Development Grant Scheme.
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is now inviting applications for grants of up to £7,500 through the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Programme.
The scheme is open to existing businesses with fewer than 10 full-time equivalent employees. Applications will be accepted from 29 June 2026 until 12 noon on 30 July 2026.
Grants are available at up to 50% of eligible project costs, with awards ranging from £500 to £7,500. Eligible capital items include equipment, machinery, computers and e-commerce websites. Please note that building works are not eligible for funding under this programme.
Projects can have a total value of up to £30,000. To qualify, your business must be actively trading and located within a rural area of the Borough.
Attendance at one of the following pre-application workshops is mandatory for businesses wishing to apply:
- Wednesday 1 July, 2pm: Online
- Wednesday 8 July, 5pm: Antrim Civic Centre
- Tuesday 21 July, 10am: Mossley Mill
- Tuesday 28 July, 4pm: Online
If your business meets the criteria, this funding could provide the investment needed to help your business grow, improve efficiency and seize new opportunities.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan, said: “Our rural businesses play a vital role in the local economy and are at the heart of many of our communities. This grant scheme provides a valuable opportunity for small businesses to invest in new equipment, technology and other improvements that can help them grow, become more competitive and build for the future. I would encourage all eligible businesses to explore the funding available and take advantage of this support.”
To register for a workshop or if you are unsure if your business is eligible, get in touch E. RuralBusiness@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk.
For more information about the scheme, visit: antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/ruralbusinessgrant
Belfast Met joins partners to launch Northern Ireland’s first Port Operations Apprenticeship Framework
1st Jul 2026
Read Article