Author: Sian Mansbridge

Renรฉeโ€™s round-up of grants and funding – August

Published 18 August 2025

Funding and grants

Thereโ€™s no summer break for grant funding being announced. Hereโ€™s a round up of grants that have come through my inbox this month. It’s fast moving so check back here every month for updates on what programmes have been released.

Good Luck and let me know how you get on!

Renรฉe

Open Horizons #Opencall1

Open Horizons is a Horizon Europe-funded initiative. It has launched its first Open Call to provide funding for women-led startups in sectors such as AI, Green Tech, Blockchain and Advanced Materials. Successful applicants can receive up to โ‚ฌ55,000 in equity-free funding, tailored mentoring and strategic matchmaking, and opportunities to co-design and test paid pilot projects with major European corporates.

Applications are open to startups led by at least one woman holding a key executive role (CEO, CTO or Founder) with a minimum 25% ownership, and in inception or early-growth stage. Eligible startups must operate in deeptech or digital innovation and be based in an EU Member State or a Horizon Europe-associated country (including the UK).

Closing date: 21 August 17:00 CEST

Apply here: Open Horizons website.

Epic MegaGrants

Epic Games is offering financial support through its Epic MegaGrants programme, designed to advance innovation in real-time 3D creation. The scheme supports individuals and teams across gaming, media, enterprise and education.

Typical awards range from $5,000 to $150,000. Funding may be used for development costs or team-related expenses, such as staffing and continued production.

Creators and projects in the following areas are eligible:

  • Game Developersโ€ฏ- using Unreal Engine (or transitioning to UE5).
  • Film and Media Creatorsโ€ฏ-โ€ฏreal-time content using Unreal Engine.
  • Enterprise and Industryโ€ฏ- Unreal Engine projects in other industries
  • Education and Researchโ€ฏ- university-level initiatives
  • Tool and Open-Source Developersโ€ฏ– tools that integrate with Unreal or contribute to the 3D open-source ecosystem
  • UEFN (Fortnite Creative) Developersโ€ฏ- creators using Unreal Editor for Fortnite.

Closing Date: 22 September (23:59 ET) 

Apply here: Epic MegaGrants | Apply for Funding for Your UE5 and UEFN Projects – Unreal Engine 

UNltd โ€“ Awards for Social Entrepreneurs 

The funding is intended to support social entrepreneurs by helping them nurture their social ventures and grow their impact.

The following levels of funding are available:

  • Starting Upโ€ฏ- funding of up to ยฃ8,000
  • Scaling Upโ€ฏ- funding of up to ยฃ18,000 for a social enterprise that has been operating for between one and four years.

Together with funding, award recipients will be assigned to one of UnLtd’s dedicated programmes to provide support aligned with the needs of their social venture for up to one year.

Closing date: 30 September and 31 December

Apply here: Awards | UnLtd

Future Leaders Fellowships 

Future Leaders Fellowship (FLF) support talented people in universities, businesses, and other research and innovation environments.  

They also allow universities, research institutes, independent research organisations and businesses to develop their most talented early career researchers and innovators or to attract new people to their organisations. 

The aim of this competition is to: 

  • Support ambitious research and innovation to tackle difficult and novel challenges. 
  • Support excellence in innovation, across interdisciplinary boundaries and sectors. 
  • Develop, retain, and attract the next wave of research and innovation leaders. 

Working with a host organisation a Future Leaders Fellow will receive at least four years of funding to pursue an ambitious programme of innovation.  

Closing date: 5 November 2025 at 11am. 

More information can be accessed at the IUK website. 

RTO Catapult Grant Scheme – Innovate UK 

Launched in April this is an easy to access, easy to administer grant from Innovate UK for ยฃ15,000.  Apply quickly as the pot ran out by September last year when launched at a similar time.  Could be used for product testing, development work or if you need technical expertise to facilitate feasibility. 

Closing date: when the ยฃ is all allocated 

Apply here: Exploit innovation – Innovate UK Business Growth 

The UK Games Fund Content Fund 

The fund offers financial support to UK-based independent studios developing commercial games-for-entertainment. Backed by the UK Government, the initiative aims to help companies scale up, attract investment and generate employment in the creative industries. 

Grants will range from ยฃ50,000 to ยฃ150,000.  The funding can be used to cover staff and contractor costs directly involved in hands-on development activity. 

The scheme targets established games studios operating in the UK.ย  Applicants must be able to demonstrate how the funding would provide clearly support their business growth plans and facilitate further investment.ย 

Closing date: expressions of interest can be made at any time 

Apply here: Home – Content Fund 

Greener Homes Alliance Development Loans 

Homes England and Octopus Real Estate have launched the second phase of the Greener Homes Alliance, providing discounted development finance to small and medium-sized (SME) housebuilders. The initiative supports the construction of energy-efficient homes across England. 

A total of ยฃ150 million is available.  Loans range from ยฃ2 million to ยฃ20 million. Interest rate reductions of up to 2% are available for developers meeting environmental and social criteria.  Eligible applicants include SME housebuilders and developers operating in England. 

Closing date: Applications can be made at any time 

Apply here: Greener Homes Alliance | Octopus Capital 

Co-operative Enterprise Loans 

Co-operative and Community Finance is offering loans of between ยฃ10,000 and ยฃ85,000 for new or existing co-operatives across the UK to assist with the expansion, setup, or development of a co-operative enterprise. โ€ฏ 

Loans will only be made to economically viable enterprises that are democratically owned and controlled organisations registered in the UK.  

Closing date: Applications can be made at any time 

Apply here: Co-op Loan Fund โ€“ Unique lending: to co-ops, from co-ops 

Surrey Hills Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) Grants 

The Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme provides grants to farmers and land managers in the Surrey Hills for one-off projects to make improvements to the natural environment, climate change mitigation, cultural heritage and public access on their land.   

Closing date: March 2026 

Apply here: Surrey Hills Farming in Protected Landscapes FiPL 

The Workplace Charging Scheme 

The Workplace Charging Scheme provides support for organisations towards the cost of installing up to 40 electric vehicle chargepoint sockets at their sites. 

The scheme covers up to 75% of the total costs of the purchase and installation of EV chargepoints (including VAT), capped at a maximum of: 

  • ยฃ350 per socket 
  • 40 sockets across all sites per applicant โ€“ for instance, if you want to install them at 40 sites, you will have 1 socket available per site 

All chargepoints must be installed by anโ€ฏOZEV authorised installer. 

Closing Date: 31st March 2026 

Apply here: Before you start โ€“ 

Further business support in Surrey

If there isn’t anything in this month’s roundup that suits your business’s specific needs, check out our Support Directory, or contact our team of experts via our Business Support Form.

Sign up to our newsletter for regular updates on funding, business news, events and support for all Surrey businesses.

Headshot of Renee Canter, of Business Surrey. She is stood outside in a garden.

Mastering marketing and communications – webinar

Published 11 August 2025

Advice and support, Events and awards

Join us for this free online session, hosted by Business Surrey where weโ€™ll explore the ins and outs of marketing and communications. Whether youโ€™re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this event is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their skills and knowledge in the field.

Ready to dive into the world of marketing?

Workshop highlights

  • Develop a comprehensive marketing plan tailored to your business
  • How defining your target audience will help you focus your marketing activities
  • Explore the exciting possibilities of digital marketing to make the most of your time and resources including using AI tools effectively.

Event details

  • Date: 18 September
  • Time: 11:00 AM โ€“ 12:00 PM
  • Location: Online
  • Cost: Free (Pre-registration required)

Meet your expert

The workshop will be led by Daniel Chidley, our Marketing Advisor. Daniel is an experienced business coach, mentor and director level communications, PR & marketing consultant with 20 years of experience in business. As a Chartered Marketer with the Chartered Institute of Marketing, Daniel has experience in-house, agency and consultancy with experience across a range of industries.

In recent years, Daniel has worked with hundreds of SMEs and high growth businesses as a business coach and is accredited with the Association for Coaching. With a coaching approach, Daniel is passionate about supporting entrepreneurs and business owners in adopting new strategies and techniques to improve their marketing, with a particular focus on early-stage businesses, start-ups, scale up businesses and social enterprises

Why attend?

  • Actionable Strategies: learn why a strategy and plan are crucial foundations on which to build your marketing activities and how to focus your efforts to help your business grow.
  • Expert Guidance: Benefit from Danielโ€™s extensive experience and tailored advice.
  • This webinar is perfect for SME owners and entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses. There is no entry fee, and you can invite as many team members as you like. Be sure to register today to secure your spot!

Looking for a different type of business support?

We want you to grow and succeed โ€“ and have a range of ways you can access support for your company.

  • Our team of experts can provide independent and impartial advice on exploring opportunities and how to tackle various challenges. Contact the team for free via our Business Support Form.
  • Sign up to our newsletter for regular updates on news, events and support for Surrey businesses.
  • Browse our directory of business support in Surrey. The directory includes more than 120 local, regional and national schemes and initiatives, which can search through quickly and easily.
  • Find out more about what we do and how to access one of our many business-friendly services by completing our Contact Us form.
Webinar - mastering marketing and communications

Meet the Regulator webinar

Published 8 August 2025

Advice and support, Events and awards

Join us for this free online session, hosted by Business Surrey in partnership with Surrey Trading Standards. It is designed to help local businesses understand their legal responsibilities, avoid common compliance pitfalls, and access expert support.

Led by Phil LeShirley, Trading Standards Specialist, the session will cover key areas such as product safety, consumer rights, and how to engage with regulators early to protect your business and build customer trust.

Workshop highlights

  • What Trading Standards does (and doesnโ€™t do)
  • Product safety, food standards, and fair trading
  • Consumer rights and refund rules
  • The EASY 123 scheme for early-stage businesses
  • How to engage with regulators before problems arise

Event details

  • Date: 28 August
  • Time: 11:30 AM โ€“ 12:30 PM
  • Location: Online
  • Cost: Free (Pre-registration required)

Meet your expert 

The workshop will be led by Phil LeShirley a Senior Trading Standards Specialist with over 24 yearsโ€™ experience in the field.ย  He is responsible for business partnerships at Buckinghamshire and Surrey Trading Standards, and has had great success at building relationships with corporate clients and trade bodiesย 

He has significant expertise in general product safety and also delivers delivers a wide range of training courses to businesses. 

Phil and the team at Buckinghamshire and Surrey Trading Standards are seen as exemplars in their field and are multi award winning. 

Why attend? 

  • Actionable Strategies: learn why getting consumer right will help your business grow. 
  • Expert Guidance: Benefit from Philโ€™s extensive experience and tailored advice. 
  • This webinar is perfect for SME owners and entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses. There is no entry fee, and you can invite as many team members as you like. Be sure to register today to secure your spot! 

Looking for free business support?

Business Surrey is a Surrey County Council service providing free and accessible support for all businesses in Surrey.

We want you to grow and succeed โ€“ and have a range of ways you can access support for your company.

  • Ready to take your business to the next level? Need new or upgraded skills to adapt to new ways of working? Or do you just require advice on how to access funding and grants? Our team of experts can provide independent and impartial advice on exploring opportunities and how to tackle various challenges. Contact the team for free via our Business Support Form.
  • Sign up to our newsletter for regular updates on news, events and support for Surrey businesses.
  • Browse our directory of business support in Surrey. The directory includes more than 120 local, regional and national schemes and initiatives, which can search through quickly and easily.
  • Find out more about what we do and how to access one of our many business-friendly services by completing our Contact Us form.
Meet the regulator - trading standards webinar

How to start a business on a budget

Published 6 August 2025

Advice and support, Thought leadership

Starting a new business can be exciting and rewarding. However, if not properly planned and budgeted for in advance, it can also be a drain on your finances. This is especially the case if you are self-funding the business from savings or a small business loan (known as bootstrapping) instead of securing funding from venture capitalists or other investors.

If you are bootstrapping your business, here are 3 practical tips on how to start a business on a budget.

1. Work out your needs and reduce unnecessary costs

Assuming you’ve already carefully planned and researched your business idea to ensure it is viable and that there is a market for it, the next thing you’ll need to do is assess what you’ll need to actually set it up and run it.

In addition to business tools, equipment, and initial set-up costs, such as regulatory or licensing fees, you’ll also need to know your ongoing overheads, such as material costs, cost of premises (if applicable), inventory, salaries, admin, etc.

In short, you need to know how much you need to generate a profit by taking into account all the costs and expenses you’ll incur running your business.

It’s important during the start-up phase that your business budget is spent wisely.

It may be tempting to spend money on nice-to-haves, but at this stage, you should only buy what you absolutely need. If you need to purchase business tools and equipment, you could consider re-loved or refurbished equipment. Not only will it save you money, but it is a sustainable business option that can go toward your net zero goal.

Also, consider working from home at the start-up phase to lower overheads if you can.

Now is also a good time to be strict with your outgoings and reduce unnecessary expenditures such as pricey subscriptions to services or apps you no longer use.

2. Adopt a low-cost marketing strategy

You’ll need to market your business so people know you exist.

Marketing can take up a huge chunk of a business’s budget, but there are low-cost and free marketing strategies you can use to make your business visible. For an in-depth framework to help you build your own tailored marketing strategy, check out our free Marketing Toolkit.

Online – social media and website

Building a social media presence is low-cost and effective. You can also do this organically instead of using paid advertisements. Research which platforms your ideal clients are using, and start with the one they use the most.

You can then post content to promote your business and also attract your ideal customers with content that interests them and is relevant and helpful.

If you have an SEO-optimised website, you can use it to market your business effectively. Your website doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive, either. There are low-cost and even free options available. If your website isnโ€™t SEO-optimised, do some research into how to optimise it yourself. There are lots of free online resources available from reputable sources like Hubspot to help you do this without having to pay an expert to do it for you.

In addition to showcasing testimonials, products and services on your website, you can start a blog and develop a content marketing strategy to increase website visitors. For example, you can share your helpful SEO-optimised blog content on your social media channels to drive traffic to your website.

Print and out of home

Another low-cost marketing option that may be suitable for your business, is to create and print leaflets at home and distribute them locally by posting through letterboxes, leaving leaflets at suitable venues, and posting them on public notice boards. These can include a link to your website or social media channels, you could also add a QR code linking to the same.

The personal touch

And don’t forget how effective word of mouth can be, so let all your family, friends and wider network know about your new venture and get them to support you, too.

Finally, adding a personal touch to all your customer interactions can go a long way to building brand loyalty, and it doesn’t have to break the bank. For example, if you sell a product online, you could add a personalised handwritten thank you to the delivery note, or if you do business face to face, provide a simple loyalty card or discount on their next purchase.

All this will go toward building a good reputation, which is invaluable.

3. Make use of free online resources and tools

You can use free online tools to help you manage day-to-day business processes such as invoicing and accounting, project planning, appointment setting, graphic design for content, and many others that are available.

By automating business workflows with free online tools, you are not only saving money but also freeing up your time from tedious admin tasks so you can focus on running a profitable business.

Free online business groups and forums, including those on social media platforms such as Facebook or LinkedIn, are also worth researching. They can connect you with other people in your field or industry and can be powerful networking tools. They can also be a treasure trove of valuable free advice on running your business on a budget.

There may even be collaboration opportunities you can leverage. For example, you can work alongside other businesses to increase your visibility or barter and trade with them for services, to further reduce your overheads.

Support for your small business in Surrey

If you are a Surrey business or looking to relocate to Surrey, you can contact our team of experts for free and accessible advice and support.

Whatever your business, we are here to help you succeed โ€“ by providing access to quality resources alongside expert local knowledge and insight.

You can also:

A close up of a person's hands - one is holding a tablet and the other is holding a pen and pointing to a spot on a document

Renรฉeโ€™s July round-up of business funding and grant sources

Published 8 July 2025

Funding and grants

Before I share details of all the grants and business funding that is available, did you know that 280 years ago this July, the first ever recorded womenโ€™s cricket match took place on Gosden Common near Guildford between the eleven maids of Bramley and the eleven maids of Hambledon.  Apparently, it drew a large crowd and was reported in several newspapers. 

The Sage Small Business XI 2025 Grant is linked to their sponsorship of The Hundred, the British cricket tournament that has taken off in the last few years and which is leading the way in giving womenโ€™s and menโ€™s sport equal billing. 

Part of the prize on offer is the chance to get promoted at one of the games which are broadcast live on TV.  Now, you might be a cricket fan and the idea of your company being advertised over the hoardings at the Oval sounds like a dream come true, but how many of your potential customers are also cricket fans?  Start thinking about the marketing opportunities on offer and how they might be just as beneficial as ยฃ10k. 

By the way, if you havenโ€™t been to The Hundred, go!  Not only are the Surrey based Oval Invincibles the current menโ€™s holders, but itโ€™s also a great day out! 

Good Luck and let me know how you get on! 

Renรฉe 

Sage Small Business XI 2025

Sage logo

Are your potential customers cricket fans? Sage is giving away a total of ยฃ50k in business grants to 11 deserving small businesses plus in stadium branding at one local The Hundred Cricket Match and 2 x tickets to The Hundred Final.

The competition is open to all UK residents aged 18 or over who are an owner of a small business, charity or not-for-profit thatโ€™s been trading for a year that has fewer than 50 employees.

Closing date: 12:00pm on Monday 7th July

Apply here: Sage x The Hundred | Small Business Competition | Enter to Win

Santander X UK Awards

Santander X logo

The Santander X UK Awards is Santander’s flagship entrepreneurship pitching competition. The competition has evolved to supporting 3 categories: university entrepreneurs, start-ups and a new SME category added for 2025.

Their aim is to award equity-free funding with prizes of between ยฃ10-30,000 and support for ambitious UK founders to take their ventures to the next level.

Closing Date: 16 July at 23.59

Apply here: Santander X UK Awards

Adobe Express ยฃ1,000 Grant

From now until August, 2 business owners a month will win ยฃ1,000 and mentoring from Adobe Express and Enterprise Nation. 

All you have to do is share a creation you have made by using the templates in Adobe Express.  It could be a social post, flyer or logo for your brand, upload it and complete the application for to be in with a chance of winning. 

Closing date: until August 2025 

Apply here:ย  Adobe Express Brand Builder | Win ยฃ1,000 for your marketing strategyย 

Future Leaders Fellowships 

Future Leaders Fellowship (FLF) support talented people in universities, businesses, and other research and innovation environments.  

They also allow universities, research institutes, independent research organisations and businesses to develop their most talented early career researchers and innovators or to attract new people to their organisations. 

The aim of this competition is to: 

  • Support ambitious research and innovation to tackle difficult and novel challenges. 
  • Support excellence in innovation, across interdisciplinary boundaries and sectors. 
  • Develop, retain, and attract the next wave of research and innovation leaders. 

Working with a host organisation a Future Leaders Fellow will receive at least four years of funding to pursue an ambitious programme of innovation.  

Closing date: 5 November 2025 at 11am. 

More information can be accessed at the IUK website. 

RTO Catapult Grant Scheme – Innovate UK 

Launched in April this is an easy to access, easy to administer grant from Innovate UK for ยฃ15,000.  Apply quickly as the pot ran out by September last year when launched at a similar time.  Could be used for product testing, development work or if you need technical expertise to facilitate feasibility. 

Closing date: when the ยฃ is all allocated 

Apply here: Exploit innovation – Innovate UK Business Growth 

The UK Games Fund Content Fund 

The fund offers financial support to UK-based independent studios developing commercial games-for-entertainment. Backed by the UK Government, the initiative aims to help companies scale up, attract investment and generate employment in the creative industries. 

Grants will range from ยฃ50,000 to ยฃ150,000.  The funding can be used to cover staff and contractor costs directly involved in hands-on development activity. 

The scheme targets established games studios operating in the UK.  Applicants must be able to demonstrate how the funding would clearly support their business growth plans and facilitate further investment. 

Closing date: expressions of interest can be made at any time 

Apply here: Home – Content Fund 

Greener Homes Alliance Development Loans 

Homes England and Octopus Real Estate have launched the second phase of the Greener Homes Alliance, providing discounted development finance to small and medium-sized (SME) housebuilders. The initiative supports the construction of energy-efficient homes across England. 

A total of ยฃ150 million is available.  Loans range from ยฃ2 million to ยฃ20 million. Interest rate reductions of up to 2% are available for developers meeting environmental and social criteria.  Eligible applicants include SME housebuilders and developers operating in England. 

Closing date: Applications can be made at any time 

Apply here: Greener Homes Alliance | Octopus Capital 

Co-operative Enterprise Loans 

Co-operative and Community Finance is offering loans of between ยฃ10,000 and ยฃ85,000 for new or existing co-operatives across the UK to assist with the expansion, setup, or development of a co-operative enterprise. โ€ฏ 

Loans will only be made to economically viable enterprises that are democratically owned and controlled organisations registered in the UK.  

Closing date: Applications can be made at any time 

Apply here: Co-op Loan Fund โ€“ Unique lending: to co-ops, from co-ops 

Surrey Hills Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) Grants 

The Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme provides grants to farmers and land managers in the Surrey Hills for one-off projects to make improvements to the natural environment, climate change mitigation, cultural heritage and public access on their land.   

Closing date: March 2026 

Apply here: Surrey Hills Farming in Protected Landscapes FiPL 

The Workplace Charging Scheme 

The Workplace Charging Scheme provides support for organisations towards the cost of installing up to 40 electric vehicle chargepoint sockets at their sites. 

The scheme covers up to 75% of the total costs of the purchase and installation of EV chargepoints (including VAT), capped at a maximum of: 

  • ยฃ350 per socket 
  • 40 sockets across all sites per applicant โ€“ for instance, if you want to install them at 40 sites, you will have 1 socket available per site 

All chargepoints must be installed by anโ€ฏOZEV authorised installer. 

Closing Date: 31st March 2026 

Apply here: Before you start โ€“ 

Further business support in Surrey

If there isn’t anything in this month’s roundup that suits your business’s specific needs, check out our Support Directory, or contact our team of experts via our Business Support Form.

Sign up to our newsletter for regular updates on funding, business news, events and support for all Surrey businesses.

Surrey Careers Hub engages educators at Surrey FE Teaching & Learning Conference

Published 3 July 2025

Skills and workforce

The Surrey Careers Hub team were pleased to take part in Surrey FE’s second annual Teaching and Learning Conference at Nescot College on Tuesday 1 July.

The event brought together around 200 colleagues from the colleges in theย SurreyFEย group with the aim of collaborating, sharing best practice, and strengthening approaches to teaching and learning. As such, it provided a valuable platform for the Careers Hub team to engage with a broad spectrum of college staff, including teachers and senior leadership teams from across SurreyFE.

Julie Kapsalis, Principal and CEO of Nescot, welcomed attendees on the day, saying:
โ€œA warm welcome to everyone joining us today. Nescot is absolutely delighted to host the second SurreyFE Teaching and Learning Conference this year. Thank you to the teams from across the SurreyFE colleges including all the teaching and learning groups who have worked tirelessly to organise todayโ€™s event and to the many speakers and colleagues hosting sessions throughout the day. It’s going to be an incredible day of learning, networking and collaboration.” ย 

Delegates were able to network with peers to exchange ideas, share teaching resources, and explore the exhibitor stands in Nescotโ€™s Skills Park (including the Surrey Careers hub stand). Attendees were also welcomed on the day by two specialist greeters: Nescotโ€™s robots, Pepper and NesBot, and also had the opportunity to experience Nescot’s specialist AI and VR technology facilities in the Immersive Learning suite.ย ย 

Supporting Surrey’s workforce of tomorrow

Exhibiting at the conference provided an opportunity for the Surrey Careers Hub to showcase its initiatives and discuss how it can support educational institutions in enhancing career guidance for students to help them prepare for the world of work. By interacting with various staff members, the team was able to promote their work and explore potential collaborations that could benefit students as they become the workforce of tomorrow.

The Careers Hub’s support of the event demonstrates clearly the importance of the strategic partnership between Surrey County Council and SurreyFE. This partnership spans multiple programmes at Surrey County Council, highlighting the council’s commitment to supporting educational and career development initiatives across the region.

Find out more

More information about Surrey Careers Hub can be found on the Surrey County Council website.

For updates on other Surrey Careers Hub activity,ย please follow us on LinkedIn

L-R: Rosie Roberts, Georgina Angele and Nina Johal from Surrey Careers Hub

SurreyFE group covers the following colleges: Activate Learning, Brooklands Technical College, East Surrey College, Nescot college.

Teacher Encounters with Surrey businesses

Published 25 June 2025

Skills and workforce

Teachers become students for the day visiting some of Surrey’s brightest and best businesses as part of broader efforts to inspire the region’s future workforce

As this academic year begins to draw to a close, a number of schools, special schools, and colleges across Surrey are taking part in Surrey Careers Hubโ€™s 2025 Teacher Encounters initiative.

This dynamic series of workplace visits is designed to connect educators with leading Surrey employers and has seen enthusiastic participation from teachers across a wide range of Surrey educational settings across the county, helping to bridge the gap between education and the world of work. (See full list of participating institutions below.)

These educators are taking up the opportunity to visit and engage with a diverse range of Surrey employers, including Wates Group, Royal Holloway University, CGI, Supermassive Games, Home Counties Carers, AtkinsRรฉalis, Yunex Traffic, ramsac, Macro and Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust.

What’s involved in a Teacher Encounter?

The visits offer valuable insights into the skills, knowledge, and attributes that employers are seeking in the future workforce. The programme helps educators to understand the wide range of career opportunities available and gain a deeper understanding of how their subject is applied practically in the workplace which they can take back to their classrooms to enrich their curriculum with real-world industry examples, while enabling them to build ongoing relationships with employers.

Following each Teacher Encounter, participating teachers will develop bespoke teaching resources that will translate newly acquired industry knowledge into practical classroom applications or resources to share with their teaching colleagues. The initiative aims to produce a diverse and inclusive suite of materials, tailored to a wide range of subjects and adaptable to the needs of students from all types of institutions.

Matt Furniss, Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth at Surrey County Council, praised the initiative:

โ€œThe Teachers Encounters programme is a vital investment in the future of Surreyโ€™s economy. By equipping our teachers with up-to-date industry knowledge and meaningful employer connections, we empower them to better guide their students in making informed career choices. This initiative not only benefits our young people but also strengthens the talent pipeline for local businesses, ensuring Surrey remains a thriving hub of innovation and opportunity.โ€

Views from participants

Tim Browning, Recruitment Lead at Supermassive Games said:

โ€œThis programme is a fantastic way to bridge the gap between education and industry. Equipping teachers with industry knowledge is crucial for inspiring and preparing students for their future careers. We’re already looking forward to next year’s programme!”

While Ellie Smith, AtkinsRรฉalis Social Value Consultant shared:

โ€œThe Teacher Encounter programme highlights ncounters programme highlights the importance of collaboration between educators and industry professionals in shaping a skilled workforce and AtkinsRรฉalis is proud to have taken part.โ€

With a delighted teacher from East Surrey College adding:

โ€œIt was both enlightening and informative to hear about the company’s early careers programme. The insights and perspectives shared will undoubtedly be incredibly valuable for our students as they look to progress into their careers after completing their college studies.โ€

The programme is part of Surrey Careers Hubโ€™s ongoing commitment to enhancing careers education and ensuring that young people are well-prepared for the rapidly evolving world of work. By fostering stronger links between education and industry, the Careers Hub is helping to create a more informed, inspired, and future-ready generation.

Find out more

More information about the Teacher Encounters programme can be found on the Surrey County Council website: https://www.surreycc.gov.uk/business/careers-hub/employers/teacher-encounters.

Surrey employers who would like to get involved in the 2026 Teacher Encounters programme should contact careers.hub@surreycc.gov.uk.

For updates on the Teacher Encounters programme and other Surrey Careers Hub activity, please follow us on LinkedIn

Surrey Educational settings that participated in Teacher Encounters this year:

  • Ashcombe School
  • Brooklands College
  • Carrington School
  • Collingwood College
  • East Surrey College
  • Epsom College
  • Esher Sixth Form College
  • Fox Grove School
  • Freemantles School
  • George Abbot School
  • Godalming College
  • Guildford County School
  • Heathside School
  • Hoe Valley School
  • Nescot
  • Pond Meadow School
  • Reigate College
  • Rosebery School
  • St Pauls Catholic College
  • The Beacon School
  • Therfield School
  • Thomas Knyvett College
  • Warlingham School
  • Wishmore Cross Academy
  • Woking College
Teacher Encounters visit to Wates Group. (Main image: Supermassive Games visit)

Supercharge your innovation journey with Innovate Local: South East

Published 17 June 2025

Events and awards, Innovation

Do you want to grow or improve your business but arenโ€™t sure how to get started or where to turn? Then Innovate Local: South East could be the answer you’re looking for.

On 15 July, at Royal Holloway, Innovate UK will explore the power of innovation and how it can:ย ย 

  • Drive business growth: learn how innovation can lead to increased profitability, market share, and customer loyalty.
  • Boost competitiveness: discover how staying ahead of industry trends and embracing innovation can give your business a competitive edge.
  • Foster resilience: in todayโ€™s ever-changing business landscape, innovation is a key driver of adaptability and long-term success.

The day will also include dedicated sessions exploring opportunities, challenges, and innovation pathways within the defence and cyber security, AI, and creative industriesโ€”providing tailored insights and sector-specific support. There will be representatives from both Business Surrey and Made Smarter South East in attendance on the day, ready to share more information on how you can access funding and guidance to support your own innovation journey.

Who Should Attend?

Any business based in the South East from any sector / industry. Whether youโ€™re a small start-up or an established enterprise, this event is designed to help you understand the power of innovation and its practical applications. It is the perfect opportunity for all South East businesses to connect with industry leaders, access funding, and fuel your innovation journey.

Why Attend?

  • Connect with innovation experts, funders and potential collaborators from your region.
  • Discover the opportunities and incentives for ambitious innovators and businesses in the South East.
  • Network with like-minded professionals from the South Eastโ€™s thriving business community.
  • Take your next practical step towards transforming your business through innovation.

Don’t miss this chance to supercharge your business’s growth and competitiveness.

Register now to secure your spot at Innovate Local: South East.

Renรฉeโ€™s Round-Up of Grants and Funding – June

Published 16 June 2025

Funding and grants

Roll Up Roll Up!  Youโ€™ll see in this line up of grants and funding available that there are a fair few competitions, where your business can win a prize โ€ฆ so whatโ€™s the difference between a grant and a prize? 

It seems to me that corporate philanthropy is a way for an organisation (or collaboration) to enhance their brand.  Traditional grant giving programmes therefore give way to campaigns, competitions and programmes that support their brand and enhance it. 

But whichever prize or grant you apply for the devil is in the details.  Like we donโ€™t just have one CV these days, there isnโ€™t just one grant application that you can copy and paste into a new application form.  Check the eligibility criteria, check the โ€˜prizeโ€™ is one that supports your goals and then commit to writing (or producing) a bespoke application. Good Luck!

Rural England Prosperity Fund 2025

Farmers in Tandridge, Guildford and Waverley can secure a six-figure cash injection as part of wider efforts to boost growth in the county.  Surrey County Council is offering capital grants of up to ยฃ120,000 to support innovative ideas to drive diversification in agriculture and generate new income streams while increasing the long-term sustainability of their estates.

Ideas could include establishing farm shops, developing agritourism, generating sustainable energy or cultivating new crops and livestock.

Closing date: 30 June 2025

Apply here: Economic Growth Fund application form – Business Surrey

Reigate & Banstead Thriving Communities Match Fund

REigate and banstead logo with white space

Voluntary, Community and Faith Sector (VCFS) organisations whose projects help communities in Reigate & Banstead to thrive can now apply for grants between ยฃ2,000 and ยฃ10,000 from a pot of ยฃ50,000.

If you work with local organisations whose projects help our communities to thrive, please encourage them to check the fund criteria and apply if they are eligible.

Closing date: 23 June 2025

Apply here: Thriving Communities Match Fund | Funding for local voluntary and community organisations | Reigate and Banstead

Small Biz 100

This isnโ€™t exactly a funding pot but an opportunity for promotion.  Small Business Saturday is always the first Saturday in December.  Itโ€™s been running for 12 years and is an opportunity to rally behind the small businesses we all love and wat to support.

#smallbiz100 highlights 100 small businesses, one a day for 100 days leading up to Small Business Saturday 2025!  In the past the 100 have not only received exposure on Small Business Saturday’s social media channels and in the local and national press but also joined the Small Business Saturday team in London at receptions in Downing Street, House of Lords and with Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Closing Date: 30 June 2025

Apply Here: Small Business Saturday UK | Another year making a Big Difference!

Accelerated Knowledge Transfer Competition โ€“ Innovate UK

Innovate UK has opened a new round of its Accelerated Knowledge Transfer Competition (AKT4) offering support for projects aimed at addressing drug and alcohol addiction. The initiative will fund short, targeted collaborations between eligible research institutions and business partners.

Each project can receive a grant of up to ยฃ35,000 to support interventions that develop or evaluate innovation with potential impact on treatment, recovery, harm reduction or prevention for those affected by addiction.

Closing Date: 11am 2 July 2025

Apply here: Competition overview – Accelerated Knowledge Transfer 4 (AKT4) Addiction – Innovation Funding Service

AXA StartUp Angel Competition 

The AXA Startup Angel Competition has been created to support entrepreneurs hoping to realise their business ambitions. The contest offers a variety of prizes to would-be businesses from across the UK to help them through the next phase of their startup journey. 

There are six opportunities to win in 2025. Two winners will receive the top prize of ยฃ25,000 to fund their business idea. These winners will also be awarded mentoring from the AXA Startup Angels and business insurance for a year. 

There are also four runners-up prizes featuring over ยฃ18,000 of media, mentoring and exposure.  Each runner-up will receive a profile on their business in The Standard, mentoring with a member of The Standard team, plus VIP access to SME XPO 2026. 

Closing Date: 6 July 2025 (23:59 hrs) 

Apply here: Startup Angelย 

Santander X UK Awards

Santander X logo

The Santander X UK Awards is Santander’s flagship entrepreneurship pitching competition. The competition has evolved to supporting 3 categories: university entrepreneurs, start-ups and a new SME category added for 2025.

Their aim is to award equity-free funding with prizes of between ยฃ10-30,000 and support for ambitious UK founders to take their ventures to the next level.

Closing Date: 16 July at 23.59

Apply here: Santander X UK Awards

Adobe Express ยฃ1,000 Grant

From now until August, 2 business owners a month will win ยฃ1,000 and mentoring from Adobe Express and Enterprise Nation. 

All you have to do is share a creation you have made by using the templates in Adobe Express.  It could be a social post, flyer or logo for your brand, upload it and complete the application for to be in with a chance of winning. 

Closing date: until August 2025 

Apply here:ย  Adobe Express Brand Builder | Win ยฃ1,000 for your marketing strategyย 

Future Leaders Fellowships 

Future Leaders Fellowship (FLF) support talented people in universities, businesses, and other research and innovation environments.  

They also allow universities, research institutes, independent research organisations and businesses to develop their most talented early career researchers and innovators or to attract new people to their organisations. 

The aim of this competition is to: 

  • Support ambitious research and innovation to tackle difficult and novel challenges. 
  • Support excellence in innovation, across interdisciplinary boundaries and sectors. 
  • Develop, retain, and attract the next wave of research and innovation leaders. 

Working with a host organisation a Future Leaders Fellow will receive at least four years of funding to pursue an ambitious programme of innovation.  

Applications will open on 23 June 2025 and close on 5 November 2025 at 11am. 

More information can be accessed at the IUK website. 

RTO Catapult Grant Scheme – Innovate UK 

Launched in April this is an easy to access, easy to administer grant from Innovate UK for ยฃ15,000.  Apply quickly as the pot ran out by September last year when launched at a similar time.  Could be used for product testing, development work or if you need technical expertise to facilitate feasibility. 

Closing date: when the ยฃ is all allocated 

Apply here: Exploit innovation – Innovate UK Business Growth 

The UK Games Fund Content Fund 

The fund offers financial support to UK-based independent studios developing commercial games-for-entertainment. Backed by the UK Government, the initiative aims to help companies scale up, attract investment and generate employment in the creative industries. 

Grants will range from ยฃ50,000 to ยฃ150,000.  The funding can be used to cover staff and contractor costs directly involved in hands-on development activity. 

The scheme targets established games studios operating in the UK.  Applicants must be able to demonstrate how the funding would provide clear additionality to their business growth plans and facilitate further investment. 

Closing date: expressions of interest can be made at any time 

Apply here: Home – Content Fund 

Greener Homes Alliance Development Loans 

Homes England and Octopus Real Estate have launched the second phase of the Greener Homes Alliance, providing discounted development finance to small and medium-sized (SME) housebuilders. The initiative supports the construction of energy-efficient homes across England. 

A total of ยฃ150 million is available.  Loans range from ยฃ2 million to ยฃ20 million. Interest rate reductions of up to 2% are available for developers meeting environmental and social criteria.  Eligible applicants include SME housebuilders and developers operating in England. 

Closing date: Applications can be made at any time 

Apply here: Greener Homes Alliance | Octopus Capital 

Co-operative Enterprise Loans 

Co-operative and Community Finance is offering loans of between ยฃ10,000 and ยฃ85,000 for new or existing co-operatives across the UK to assist with the expansion, setup, or development of a co-operative enterprise. โ€ฏ 

Loans will only be made to economically viable enterprises that are democratically owned and controlled organisations registered in the UK.  

Closing date: Applications can be made at any time 

Apply here: Co-op Loan Fund โ€“ Unique lending: to co-ops, from co-ops 

Surrey Hills Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) Grants 

The Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme provides grants to farmers and land managers in the Surrey Hills for one-off projects to make improvements to the natural environment, climate change mitigation, cultural heritage and public access on their land.   

Closing date: March 2026 

Apply here: Surrey Hills Farming in Protected Landscapes FiPL 

The Workplace Charging Scheme 

The Workplace Charging Scheme provides support for organisations towards the cost of installing up to 40 electric vehicle chargepoint sockets at their sites. 

The scheme covers up to 75% of the total costs of the purchase and installation of EV chargepoints (including VAT), capped at a maximum of: 

  • ยฃ350 per socket 
  • 40 sockets across all sites per applicant โ€“ for instance, if you want to install them at 40 sites, you will have 1 socket available per site 

All chargepoints must be installed by anโ€ฏOZEV authorised installer. 

Closing Date: 31st March 2026 

Apply here: Before you start โ€“ 

Good Luck and let me know how you get on! 

Renรฉe 

Further business support in Surrey

If there isn’t anything in this month’s roundup that suits your business’s specific needs, check out our Support Directory, or contact our team of experts via our Business Support Form.

Sign up to our newsletter for regular updates on funding, business news, events and support for all Surrey businesses.

Headshot of Renee Canter, of Business Surrey. She is stood outside in a garden.

Unlock the Future with Business Surrey’s AI Toolkit

Published 27 May 2025

Advice and support, Innovation

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a luxury reserved for large corporations. Small businesses, too, can harness the power of AI to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and drive growth. In recognition of its importance, we have partnered with experts at the University of Surrey to create a cutting-edge AI toolkit designed to help small businesses embrace this transformative technology.

Why AI matters for small businesses

AI offers numerous advantages for small businesses, making it an essential tool for staying competitive. By automating routine tasks, AI frees up valuable time for employees to focus on strategic activities. It can also provide insights through data analysis, helping businesses make informed decisions and identify new opportunities. AI-driven customer service solutions can also enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty, even leading to increased revenue.

What’s included in the Business Surrey AI toolkit?

The toolkit takes the form of four video modules, each building on the last.

Video 1: The Foundations of AI

Covering how AI developed, and explaining some of the commonly-used jargon associated with AI.

Video 2: People-centred AI

Focusing on the impact AI is having on our day-today lives, explaining how โ€“ with human oversight โ€“ it can be used to support automation in tasks like interpreting data, making meeting notes and reviewing job applications.

Video 3: Applications of conversational AI

Explaining how the development of large language models means AI tools can play a key role in how businesses will have conversations in multiple languages in the very near future – with very real potential for businesses that export and trade internationally.

Video 4: Business view of AI

Focusing on applying the learning to your business – eg identifying fraud in financial services, supporting idea generation in the creative industries, or training and upskilling employees in any sector.

Why implement AI in your business?

Embracing AI is not just about keeping up with the latest trends; it’s about future-proofing your business. As AI continues to evolve, businesses that adopt this technology early will be better positioned to adapt to changes and seize new opportunities. The Business Surrey AI toolkit is your gateway to understanding and using AI, ensuring your business remains competitive in the digital age.

Get started today

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to transform your business with AI. Download the Business Surrey AI toolkit today and take the first step towards a more efficient, productive, and innovative future.

Free use image of computer particulates demonstrating AI use