Business Grants
Grants to help Fort William thrive — from events that bring people together to property improvements that enhance businesses.
Next Board Meeting: 20 November 2025
Please submit your Property Improvement Grant applications no later than three working days before the meeting. Event Grant applications must be submitted at least one month before the event start date.
Property Improvement Grant
Levy-paying businesses can apply for funding of up to £1,200 (including VAT) to enhance the appearance of their shopfronts, signage, and exterior features.
The scheme is designed to help improve the visual appeal of our businesses and promote trade with local services / suppliers.
Applications are open to BID levy payers, and will be assessed on a first-come, first-served basis. Full guidelines, eligibility criteria, and the application form are available below. If you’re unsure whether your project qualifies, please contact the BID Project Manager for advice before applying.
Events Support Grants
This grant is designed to help local organisers enhance, expand, or trial events that bring people into the town centre and support the local economy. Grants can cover up to 50% of eligible costs, including marketing, infrastructure, and added-value programming.
The scheme is open to local businesses, community groups, and individuals with a viable event plan that benefits Fort William. Applications are assessed on a rolling basis, so early submission is recommended. You can download the application form and full guidelines below.
To proceed with organising an event, you may wish to review the Highland Council’s requirements and guidelines. Their documentation can be accessed here for your reference.
Successful Grant Applications in the BID Area:
The Ben Nevis Guest House recently applied for a Property Improvement Grant to replace and upgrade the fencing surrounding their car park and gardens. The previous fence, while functional, had not been built to withstand the unique local weather conditions and required frequent maintenance.
Comms West, a local internet service provider based in the Ben Nevis Industrial Estate, recently applied for a Property Improvement Grant to enhance the exterior of their new premises.
Who can apply for these grants?
The Property Improvement Grant will be available to businesses that pay the BID levy and are located within the BID Fort William area. For the Event Support Scheme the event must take place within the BID Fort William area or demonstrate a direct and measurable benefit to businesses within it.
What kinds of projects are eligible?
We’re supporting two types of initiatives:
- Events that bring people into the town centre and support local trade.
- Property improvements that enhance the visual appearance of your premises and contribute to a more attractive town.
When will applications open?
Applications for 2025 are now open – please apply!
How do I apply?
Please download the application forms and send that and the relevant documentation to the Project Manager – Mary Philip – manager@bidfortwilliam.co.uk.
