YOUNG unemployed people in Somerset can get grants of up to £1,000 to help them start a business.

The funding is available from Somerset Community Foundation for training and business for young people in the county.

Two grants programmes are open to people aged up to 30 who live in Somerset and are not in education, training or employment.

Enterprise Grants are for young people aged 18 to 30 to launch their business idea. The money could be used to pay for things like equipment, materials, stock and services to help get their business running, and grants for up to £1,000 are available from this programme.

Training and Employment Support Grants could help a young person aged 16 to 30 with the cost of essential items for training, apprenticeships or employment. This could include the cost of a course, a laptop, tools or clothing, or transport costs. Grants for up to £500 are available from this programme.

Kirsty Campbell, programmes manager at Somerset Community Foundation said: “We’re delighted to be launching this new fund, which offers grants for young people in Somerset who are not currently in employment, education or training.

“Whether you have created a business plan and just need an extra bit of money to help get your new business off the ground or have decided to re-train, or start a course at college or an apprenticeship – we’d like to help if we can. It’s amazing the difference these grants can make.”

The deadline for applications is Wednesday, June 30.

For more information click HERE or if you have any questions, contact Kirsty Campbell by e-mailing info@somersetcf.org.uk or by calling 01749 344949.