Business Grants Questions and Answers
Do I need planning permission to start my business?
This will depend on the type of business you plan to start. Any new business or a business planning a change of use to premises could be affected. It is always advisable to seek out the advice of the Planning Service on 01629 816200 or email customer.service@peakdistrict.gov.uk
The National Park Authority has published a number of planning documents including a new Design Guide and Energy: Renewables and Conservation.
Can I get grant aid to start a business or develop a new business idea?
Various grants may be available dependent on the type, location and nature of the business itself.
See grants for new or expanding businesses that use the Peak District environment or grants for supporting sustainable development
Financial support may also be available from other sources of funding
Grants may also be available to the owners of listed buildings, or for some unlisted buildings within conservation areas, to assist with repair and restoration costs. Find out more in the repair and restoration of historic buildings section.
Which grant scheme is best for my organisation?
If your organisation has a community focus, that is, a social enterprise or non-for-profit organisation, help may be available through the Sustainable Development Fund. This does not rule out private businesses but these need to demonstrate a clear community and innovative element.
We are also exploring ways to help businesses that make use of the special qualities of the Peak District environment and show environmental consideration in their products and services. Please keep checking for up to date information.
Details of our previous scheme.
How can my business get recognition for its environmental good practices?
If you think your business is run in an environmentally friendly way and uses products or services that contribute to the conservation of the Peak District National Park, then you may be eligible to receive the Peak District Environmental Quality Mark (EQM) award. The EQM logo is designed to communicate to your customers the efforts you are taking to reduce your environmental impact and contribute to the conservation of the special qualities of the Peak District National Park.
Find out more about the Peak District Environmental Quality Mark award, including how to apply for the award, by contacting the EQM Project Officer, Faith Johnson on 01629 816 321 or email faith.johnson@peakdistrict.gov.uk
How can I reduce my business's environmental impact?
The National Park would like to encourage all businesses located within the National Park to consider the way in which they approach energy and water use, waste and recycling, and the sourcing of the materials they use.
More information about renewable energy
The Peak District Environmental Quality Mark award's application process includes a simple energy, waste and water audit along with advice from the Project Officer on ways your business can further reduce its environmental impact.
The Sustainable Development Fund may also be able to assist in some circumstances.
There are a number of other organisations that can give advice and support, but they may charge for this service.
The Carbon Trust, Energy Saving Trust, Envirowise and Groundwork are examples of services that offer businesses the opportunity to reduce their ‘environmental footprint’.
Check
your carbon footprint at these sites:
Carbon Footprint's
Business Services
Directgov C02 Calculator
Pure
Trust Carbon
Calculator
There
may also be certain regulations that your business has to comply with. Advice can be sought from the Environment Agency and your
local authority's Environmental Protection Service.
Local
authorities within the Peak District National Park
Can I link with or work with similar businesses in the Peak District?
The Peak District National Park Authority works with a number of partners and supports other initiatives that could benefit your business.
Working with and learning from other businesses
Could my business involve and support young people?
A number of organisations give advice on how your business could help young people through training and work experience, and in local community projects.
Rural Education and Arts Projects (REAP)
Nacro, the crime reduction charity
British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV)
Your local authority youth service can also give advice.
Local
authorities within the Peak District National Park
How can I link my business with the tourism sector?
The following websites may be able to assist with marketing your tourism project or business.
Visit Peak District & Derbyshire
National Quality Assessment Scheme
Is funding available from other sources?
Peak Directions – comprehensive list of other funding sources specific to the Peak District
Food and Drink Forum – details of free advice and support available to small food and drink firms in Derbyshire
Your local council may have their own grant schemes
Local
authorities within the Peak District National Park
Is there any other help or advice I can access?
There are a number of organisations that can be contacted. These include:
Derbyshire Chamber of Commerce
Peak Directions - a comprehensive list of support services
If you are an arts business, you can also contact:
Peak Directions - Creative industries
If you are a food producer or business, you can also contact:
Heart of England Fine Foods (West Midlands)
Food Northwest (Cheshire)
