Aims/priorities: The Second Act Entrepreneur Fund provides grants to entrepreneurs aged 40 and over. The programme is intended to support people who have started a business or are planning to start one and provides grant funding alongside business coaching from Hatch Enterprise.
Applicants are asked to explain why they started their business, or why they want to start one, and how they would use the grant. Applications are assessed against the viability of the business, evidence of demand and plans for future growth.
Applicants should demonstrate how the business will generate sufficient revenue to cover its expenses and remain sustainable in the long term. Evidence of demand may include market research demonstrating a gap in the market or an established customer base. Applicants should also outline their future objectives and how they intend to develop and grow the business.
Who can apply: The fund is open to entrepreneurs who:
- Are aged 40 or over at the time of entry, with no upper age limit.
- Reside in the UK, including Northern Ireland.
- Have a legitimate and viable business idea or an existing business that is up and trading.
Both business ideas and established businesses are eligible to apply.
Grant amount: £10,000.
Application process: Applications are made online: https://www.simplybusiness.co.uk/campaign/second-act-entrepreneur-fund/
Deadline: 12 November 2026 (23:59)
Contact: You can call 0333 014 6683 for help
Website: https://www.simplybusiness.co.uk/campaign/second-act-entrepreneur-fund/