[Ken]

I've recently been picking up some new contracts, both window cleaning and pressure washing. It has reinvigorated my zeal for the job, and so I am thinking hard about really pushing the business forward. One aspect of that would have to be new kit/van. My wheezy, tired looking Berlingo would benefit from an upgrade, and I think a 400-500 litre system would be vital. A decent pressure washer would be very useful too. WIth that in mind I had a look at Government Business Grants. (http://tinyurl.com/yzy4b62 and herehttp://tinyurl.com/y8nocav) The information is a bit vague, so I have emailed my local Business Link but as yet had no reply.

I was just wondering whether anybody here has managed to wrangle Government money to expand their business? What criteria did you have to fulfill? How did you do it? Was it worth it?

If you haven't, what other ways have you used to get funding for expansion? Do you lease your van/wfp system? Did you get a bank loan? Any experiences or other information will be appreciated.

[Window Washers]

I've recently been picking up some new contracts, both window cleaning and pressure washing. It has reinvigorated my zeal for the job, and so I am thinking hard about really pushing the business forward. One aspect of that would have to be new kit/van. My wheezy, tired looking Berlingo would benefit from an upgrade, and I think a 400-500 litre system would be vital. A decent pressure washer would be very useful too. WIth that in mind I had a look at Government Business Grants. (http://tinyurl.com/yzy4b62 and herehttp://tinyurl.com/y8nocav) The information is a bit vague, so I have emailed my local Business Link but as yet had no reply.

I was just wondering whether anybody here has managed to wrangle Government money to expand their business? What criteria did you have to fulfill? How did you do it? Was it worth it?

If you haven't, what other ways have you used to get funding for expansion? Do you lease your van/wfp system? Did you get a bank loan? Any experiences or other information will be appreciated.

contact business link

hes a link

http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/

[Wizard]

From what i have been told they will give 50 quid a week when you start for 16 weeks to help.If you are starting and you are young the prinses Trust might help if you are out of work.The bank will help if you are a good boy as in a loan at a price.

[daz1977]

if under 30, princes trust is the best place to get a loan,  i started my plumbing business with them  and if you get any problems they know some one who can help

[Ken]

Ahh, if only I was under 30, or maybe even under 40!

I actually have a pretty well established, mainly domestic round. However, as I say, I have picked up a couple of decent contracts recently and would like to use that as a springboard to push the business forward.

I'll phone Business Link today and see what they can suggest and I'll let you know.