Start-up grant opens doors for West Suffolk entrepreneurs

12 Dec 2025

Aspiring entrepreneurs and newly established businesses in West Suffolk are being given a major boost through a start-up grant initiative.

Delivered in partnership by West Suffolk Council and MENTA, the grant scheme is designed to support businesses in their crucial early stages.

Whether it is purchasing essential equipment, buying promotional material, or investing in tools to scale up operations, the funding can help businesses grow sustainably.

Businesses who have already benefited from this grant have seen real transformation.

Joanna Kempsmith, Sugartown Toys, said “The Start Up Grant has been a tremendous support in helping me open my new shop in Bury St Edmunds.

“Launching a business comes with a lot of setup costs, and the grant made it possible for me to invest in the essential equipment needed to get everything running smoothly. Having that backing at such an important stage meant I could concentrate on creating the best experience for customers right from the start. It’s had a real, practical impact on the day-to-day running of the shop and has given my business a strong foundation to build on.

“I’m very grateful for the support, which is already making a positive difference both to my business and to the local community.”

Grants ranging from £300 to £1,500 are available on a co-investment basis. To be eligible for the start-up grant, businesses must:

• be in the start-up phase or trading for less than two years
• not have received a West Suffolk start-up grant previously
• use the funding for business-related expenses (not training or personal development)

This initiative is part of a wider effort by MENTA and West Suffolk Council to champion entrepreneurship and foster economic development across the district.

Cllr Indy Wijenayaka, Cabinet Member for Growth at West Suffolk Council, said: “This funding is a great opportunity for those who are starting out to receive the extra support they need to thrive.

“This is an investment from the council into the business community to support and champion sustainable growth. We are delighted that this funding stream has a strong history of success and want to encourage those who have not yet applied to do so.

“We are proud to work alongside MENTA to support local businesses and unlock the potential of start-ups in West Suffolk.”

Alex Till, CEO of MENTA, said: “This grant programme is about more than just funding — it’s about belief in the potential of West Suffolk’s entrepreneurs. Starting a business is a bold step, and with the right support at the right time, those first steps can turn into sustainable success. We're proud to partner with West Suffolk Council to deliver a scheme that helps local businesses gain the tools they need to grow, employ and innovate within our communities.”

For more information on how to apply contact the MENTA team directly at heretohelp@menta.org.uk.

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