Regional Investment
Solutions for Business - Grant for Business Investment (GBI)
What is GBI?
GBI is a discretionary scheme that provides a capital grant to businesses to support sustainable investment in England. Its aim is to help businesses expand, rationalise, modernise or diversify.
GBI is part of a range of Solutions for Business funded by government and available through Business Link.
Who Qualifies?
GBI is available to businesses of all size investing in an Assisted Area. If you are unsure whether you are in an Assisted Area, use our post code checker.
GBI is also available to small and medium sized companies investing in Tier 3 areas. These are determined by the Regional Development Agencies (RDAs). To find your local RDA go to England's Regional Development Agencies.
Most manufacturing businesses are eligible to apply, as are businesses in service industries that supply a national rather than local market. Applicants can be companies, partnerships or sole traders.
European Commission restrictions apply in some sectors, including synthetic fibres, shipbuilding, steel, coal, fisheries and some agricultural products.
How much?
This depends on the needs of the project and its impact on productivity and skills. Successful businesses typically receive around 10-15% of a project's total eligible capital expenditure but support can vary widely either side of these figures depending on the need and quality of the project.
There is a minimum application threshold of £10,000 assistance.
How do I find out more?
You should contact your local Business Link on tel: 0845 600 9006
To find out more about the range of Solutions for Business products and services visit
Business Link.
Delivery of the scheme is primarily through the Regional Development Agencies. Each RDA publishes its own information on the GBI scheme.
Detailed Guidelines covering the scheme are here
(839KB)
How can I apply?
You should discuss a potential application with your local Business Link on tel: 0845 600 9006. Business Link advisors are trained to match your organisation’s needs to the most appropriate support available.
There are links to the application form and the supporting financial appendices here.
Other forms of support?
Solutions for Business is a wide portfolio of targeted, publicly funded business support products and services available through Business Link. A range of products and services are available designed to help qualifying English businesses grow and succeed. Look at
Business Link. for more information.
(3673KB)