Four new grant schemes set to boost West Oxfordshire businesses and community projects

The new schemes, developed in partnership with Cotswold Tourism, will provide targeted capital investment to help businesses improve their physical premises, enhance the visitor economy, and support rural innovation and resilience. This funding aims to boost vibrancy in the district’s market towns, enhance tourism offers, and help agricultural and rural enterprises to diversify and thrive. 

Councillor Duncan Enright, Executive Member for Economic Development at West Oxfordshire District Council, said:  

“West Oxfordshire is one of the best places to grow businesses and create new opportunities for all residents to thrive. We are pleased to launch these new grant schemes which will provide a real boost to our local businesses. We know that small businesses are the lifeblood of our towns and rural communities, they drive innovation, create jobs, and keep our high streets vibrant.  

“Whether it’s improving shopfronts, supporting tourism businesses to reduce energy costs on their sustainability journey, or supporting rural innovation, this funding will support them to grow, adapt and invest in ways that benefit the wider community.” 

The Shop Front Improvement Grant Scheme, funded through UKSPF and REPF, will provide capital grants of up to £1,000 for businesses to improve the external appearance of their shop fronts and make their premises more accessible. With a total budget of £45,000 allocated, the scheme aims to fund projects that help revitalise town centres, increase footfall, safeguard local jobs, and improve long-term business sustainability. Full eligibility criteria and guidance will be published on the Council’s website ahead of the application window, which will run from 8 to 14 September. 

The Visitor Economy Grants, supported by REPF, will offer between £1,000 and £5,000 in capital support for most projects, and up to £10,000 for larger initiatives. These grants are designed for businesses and organisations operating in the tourism sector, helping fund sustainability improvements and changes that will help reduce businesses’ impact on the planet. 

The Rural Enterprise Growth Grants, also funded through REPF, will deliver between £5,000 and £20,000 capital funding opportunities to rural and agricultural businesses. This funding will support diversification, expansion, and the creation of resilient, sustainable enterprises that benefit their businesses in the long term. Eligible applicants include sole traders, small businesses and farm enterprises based in rural areas. Applications for these grants open from Monday 20 June until Friday 18 July. 

Another addition to the REPF grant funding streams is the Westhive Community Infrastructure Fund, which will see £60,000 invested into the Westhive crowdfunding platform to support community-led initiatives. The fund will help restore local pride, build a sense of belonging, and foster community cohesion. Strong emphasis is placed on supporting the most vulnerable residents and tackling exclusion linked to mental health, financial hardship, or disability. Projects led by or involving young people are especially encouraged. 

Businesses are encouraged to begin preparing for applications now, as grant schemes are due to open soon. Potential applicants should identify their investment priorities, secure two cost estimates or quotes, and ensure any proposed project can be completed before the end of February 2026. Some grants may require match funding or evidence of co-investment, with details to be provided in the full guidance upon scheme launch. 

To receive updates on the launch of these grant schemes, local businesses are encouraged to sign up to the Business Matters e-newsletter at www.westoxon.gov.uk/businessmatters. Guidance and application forms will be available here: Finance and funding - West Oxfordshire District Council 

For General business support enquiries, please email [email protected]