Keighley and Shipley businesses benefit from funding boost

Thirteen Keighley and Shipley businesses have already benefited from Keighley & Shipley Towns Fund Business Growth Programme funding, allowing them to expand and create 35 new full-time jobs.

Since the scheme was launched in the last quarter of 2022, ten businesses in Keighley have received more than £180,000 between them, and just under £50,000 has been awarded to three businesses based in Shipley.

Funding has been spent on a wide-range of projects such as expanding and modernising premises, as well as replacing older equipment with more efficient, up-to-date systems.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “It’s so positive to see how this funding is already translating into growth for the businesses who have received it so far and the welcome creation of new jobs for the area.

“It is a huge boost for the economies of Keighley and Shipley in an increasingly difficult economic climate. I hope other business will take advantage of the opportunity.”

Chair of Shipley Towns Fund, Adam Clerkin, said: “These grants are providing businesses with a catalyst to invest and grow. Shipley has a thriving business community and it is fantastic to see businesses benefit from the support. I would encourage local businesses planning capital investment to contact the team to see how they can help.”

Ian Hayfield, Chair of Keighley Towns Fund, said: “We are delighted to have made such a significant difference to these local businesses in a relatively short space of time. The funding will have an impact for years to come and the successful growth of our business community will help drive real social and economic change for the whole area.”

Grants from £1,500 to £315,000 are still available for businesses within – or looking to move to - the Keighley and Shipley Towns Fund Areas, and other businesses are invited to apply. The funding is available for start-ups, small, medium-sized and large businesses and can be used to either expand, increase productivity, create a new business, safeguard existing jobs and create new ones. The funding is available up to March 2026 or earlier if it is spent prior to that date.

For an Expression of Interest form or for further information on the Towns Fund Business Grant Programme and eligibility criteria, visit:https://www.investinbradford.com/business-support/keighley-and-shipley-towns-fund/