The AD:VENTURE Programme: Funding for New Businesses in West Yorkshire
If you are a new or young business in West Yorkshire, the AD:VENTURE programme can provide fully funded support and access to capital grant funding to help you grow. Below is a clear, client-friendly guide you can follow or share.
What Is AD:VENTURE and Who Is It For?
AD:VENTURE is a West Yorkshire growth programme for start-ups and young businesses. You receive one-to-one support from an assigned Business Manager and, if eligible, the opportunity to apply for capital grant funding.
The programme currently runs until March 2026, subject to funds being available.
- Location: West Yorkshire, including Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield
- Business stage: Start-ups and young businesses with growth potential
- Mindset: You are willing to work with a Business Manager on a simple growth plan and provide the information needed for a grant application
If you are unsure whether you qualify, it is still worth registering and speaking to a Business Manager. They will confirm whether you fall within the current funding window.
What the Grant Can Be Used For
AD:VENTURE grants are mainly capital grants. This means items you will keep and use to grow your business, rather than day-to-day running costs.
- Machinery, tools and equipment
- IT hardware or specialist kit
- Fit-out or workspace improvements related to growth
- Website design and marketing
- Vehicles may be out of scope unless clearly justified as capital that drives growth – check with your Business Manager first
Operating costs such as wages or office rent are typically not funded. Your Business Manager will confirm what is eligible for your specific application.
How to Apply for AD:VENTURE Funding
The application process is straightforward and guided throughout by your Business Manager.
- Register your business – complete the short registration form on the AD:VENTURE website. Keep the information clear and accurate.
- Meet your Business Manager – you will discuss your goals, timescales and what you want to purchase. They will confirm eligibility and next steps.
- Build a short growth plan – outline what you need, why you need it and how it will support growth, such as increased revenue or productivity.
- Gather your evidence – prepare quotes, basic financials, evidence of demand and any required permissions.
- Submit the grant application – your Business Manager will guide you through the form and checklist.
- Decision and delivery – if approved, purchase in line with the offer letter and submit your claim with invoices and proof of payment.
What to Prepare Before Your First Call
- A short business overview explaining what you do, who you serve, pricing and service area
- A simple growth objective showing what you want to buy and how it supports growth
- A basic cash-flow showing you can fund your contribution and ongoing costs
- Two or three quotes per item where possible to demonstrate value for money
- A shortlist of preferred suppliers if you already know who you want to work with
What Makes a Strong Application?
- Clear growth link – tie the item to measurable outcomes such as increased capacity, faster turnaround or new markets
- Realistic timescales – explain when the asset will be ordered, installed and used
- Match funding ready – clearly show your contribution and how it will be funded
- Value for money – provide comparable quotes and a short justification for supplier choice
- Readiness – have permissions and compliance sorted upfront where possible
Typical Timelines
- Registration and first call usually happen within a short period, depending on demand
- Application preparation typically takes two to five weeks, depending on how quickly evidence is gathered
- Decision times vary, but responding quickly to queries helps keep things moving
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I pay for the support?
No. The business support is fully funded. If you receive a grant, you may need to provide match funding. Your Business Manager will explain the percentage and rules for the current funding round.
- Can I use my own supplier?
Yes. You can name a preferred supplier in the application, as long as value for money can be demonstrated.
- Do I have to be a limited company?
AD:VENTURE supports a range of legal structures. Your Business Manager will confirm eligibility for the current funding window.
- Can wages be funded?
Grants are mainly focused on capital items such as equipment and assets. Your Business Manager will confirm what is eligible in your case.
How Athena Media Can Help
If you plan to use part of your grant for digital investment – such as website design, hosting, SEO or online booking and integration systems – I can provide clear quotes, timelines and deliverables that meet AD:VENTURE’s requirements.
If you want to name Athena Media as your preferred supplier, simply tell your Business Manager and I will liaise with them as needed.
Final Thought
If you are a start-up or young business in West Yorkshire with a clear plan for growth, AD:VENTURE is one of the most practical ways to accelerate progress.
Register, speak to your Business Manager and get your evidence ready. The sooner you start, the sooner you can invest in the tools that will help your business grow. Contact Athena Media to find out more.
