Rural Business Development Grant Scheme

The Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Programme’s (TRPSI) Rural Business Development Grant Scheme aims to support the sustainability and growth of rural micro-businesses across Northern Ireland by providing a small capital grant for the business. The TRPSI Programme is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, and this grant aid Programme is administered and managed by local Councils.

The RBDGS 2026/2027 opens at 9.00am on Monday 29^th June 2026 and closes at 12 noon on Thursday 30^th July 2026.

The Scheme can provide funding of up to 50% of costs for capital items up to a maximum of £7,500. The minimum grant awarded will be £500. The total cost of the capital project must be a minimum of £1,000 and must not exceed £20,000.  Applicants must provide the remaining match funding towards the project.

Prior to applying all eligible businesses must attend a mandatory pre-funding workshop, which are being held on:

Applications must be submitted online.

You are encouraged to submit your application well in advance of the closing date / time to avoid technical difficulties which could result in deeming your application ineligible.

This is a competitive process and all grants awarded will be determined based on merit.

Downloads:

Rural Business Development Grant Scheme – Guidance for Applicants

Rural Business Development Grant Scheme – FAQ’s