Research and development grant

3. Eligibility

The Carmarthenshire Business R&D Grant is funded by the UK Government via the Local Growth Fund and delivered by Carmarthenshire County Council and as such is only available for application to new or existing Small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) within the eligible sectors that are in or planning to locate within Carmarthenshire. 

The grant will be open for applications between 12 May 2026 and 31 October 2026 or up until the budget is fully allocated

Support is aimed primarily at existing SMEs to be operating in or servicing the following growth and foundation sectors:

·        Advanced Materials and Manufacturing

·        Construction

·        Creative Industries

·        Energy and Environment

·        Finance and Professional Services

·        Information Technology and Telecoms

·        Life Sciences

·        Food & Drink

·        Tourism

·        Retail

·        Care

Applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis subject to their potential contribution and value to the local economy, e.g. creation of jobs in the county’s primary and secondary town centres, rural areas, link to key strategic projects, such Yr Egin and Pentre Awel (Llanelli Life Science and Well-being Village), Pendine, Llanelli YMCA, Llandeilo Market Hall, Cross Hands East strategic employment site

The following sectors are ineligible for support: - primary agriculture production, forestry, aquaculture, fishing and statutory services e.g. Primary health and education.

We are unable to consider applications from large enterprises and PLC’s.

The Fund is available for SMEs of all sizes which aim to undertake initial R&D of product, process and/or service development as part of their growth and recovery plans. Applicants must therefore demonstrate their growth plans (and provide evidence where applicable) within the application process.

 

Applicants must also clearly demonstrate that the proposed project is linked to innovation, Research and Development and/or future proofing projects and refer to the Local Innovation Strategy https://www.carmarthenshire.gov.wales/media/1231400/local-innovation-strategy.pdf

All expenditure associated to the grant must be purchased and claimed within 4 months of the date of approval letter or no later than 31 January 2027, whichever is earliest. No extensions will be given for claims to be submitted. 

Upon giving reasonable notice, Carmarthenshire County Council reserves the right to monitor and maintain evidence at 1, 3 and 5 years from the receipt of a grant application.

---