SWEF Enterprise Fund
The SWEF Enterprise Fund by Dorset Community Foundation supports young Dorset entrepreneurs with grants to fuel research, innovation, and growth in new businesses.
Funder: Dorset Community Foundation
Due Dates: Rolling (applications accepted year-round)
Funding Amounts: Up to £500 for start-ups; up to £2,000 for businesses trading under 2.5 years.
Summary: Supports young Dorset entrepreneurs (18–30) with grants to launch or grow new businesses.
Key Information: Grants are only available to individuals aged 18–30 living in Dorset with new businesses under 2.5 years old.
Description
The SWEF Enterprise Fund, administered by Dorset Community Foundation, is designed to empower young entrepreneurs in Dorset by removing financial barriers to starting or growing a business. The fund offers targeted grants to support impactful business costs, such as equipment, materials, product development, websites, or training. The aim is to help young business owners achieve transformational growth and build sustainable, profitable ventures within their first two and a half years of trading. Both start-ups and early-stage businesses are eligible, with different grant levels based on business maturity.
