How North Wales Manufacturers Can Unlock Up to £100K

There’s brilliant news for ambitious manufacturing businesses based in Flintshire and Wrexham. As part of the new Investment Zone launch, two major funding opportunities are now available to help you innovate, decarbonise and grow.

However, identifying a grant is only 10% of the battle. 

Navigating the strict application criteria, presenting a flawless financial forecast, and managing the cash flow required to actually secure the funds can be a major challenge. 

So here is a breakdown of the new Clean Energy Fund (CEF), the SME Manufacturing Grants, and a clever financial strategy from our experts at Ellis & Co to help you take advantage of both:

1. The SME Manufacturing Grant (Flintshire & Wrexham) 

Grants ranging from £5,000 to £100,000 are now available for eligible manufacturing companies looking to scale.

Who is eligible? 

Businesses with fewer than 250 employees, have an annual turnover equal to or under £44m (or a balance sheet equal to or under £38m), and at least 12 months of trading history (for those based in Flinshire).

Read more about it here.

What does it cover? 

Capital equipment to enhance manufacturing capabilities, accreditations and certifications, property adaptation and decarbonisation. With £1 million of grant funding being made available each year from 2025-2028, it’ll also be reviewed as part of the Investment Zone’s 10-year programme after the initial 3 years of delivery.

Read more about it here.

2. The Clean Energy Fund (CEF) Commercial Loan 

Working alongside Ambition North Wales and UMi, Bathgate Business Finance is helping to administer the commercial loan segment of the CEF. This is a highly attractive, stand-alone funding solution specifically for renewable energy, decarbonisation and clean energy manufacturing projects.

• The Perks: Attractive rates, a 5-year term, and crucially, no personal guarantee required for amounts up to £250,000.
• The Flexibility: There are no early repayment charges applied to this loan, which opens up a unique strategic opportunity.

The Strategy: Bridging the Cash Flow Gap 

Finding the 30% match funding and paying for projects upfront is a major cash flow barrier that stops many SMEs from even applying for grants. And this is where strategic financial planning comes in.

As the CEF loan has no early repayment fees, businesses can strategically utilise this debt facility to cover the upfront project costs and meet the strict 30% match-funding requirement. And once the grant monies are successfully received from the council, you can simply use those funds to immediately reduce or clear the CEF loan balance. Hence, effectively using the loan as a short-term bridge.

The Hidden Hurdles of Grant Applications

Many businesses assume that if they meet the basic criteria, the grant is guaranteed. In reality, grant panels are incredibly risk-averse. What this means is that they do not fund ideas. Instead, they fund financially viable, highly forecasted projects. 

Here, applications are often rejected because:

1. Weak Financial Forecasting: Panels need to see exactly how this injection of capital will generate specific ROI (Return on Investment), growth and job creation over the next 1-3 years.
2. Lack of Proven Match Funding: You must conclusively prove you have the 30% match funding available without destabilising your core business operations.
3. Premature Project Starts: Your project will not be funded if it commences before your grant application has been officially approved. Timing your cash flow and application submission is critical.

How Ellis & Co Can Help You Secure Your Funding 

Securing these funds requires airtight financials and a compelling business narrative. As your proactive accountants and business advisers in the Northwest and North Wales, we’ll guide you through the entire process to maximise your chances of approval. We can help you:

• Assess Eligibility: Review your current financial standing to ensure you meet all criteria before you invest time in applying.
• Prepare the EOI: Help you draft a strong Expression of Interest to secure your invitation for a full application.
• Build the Financial Case: Draft the robust cash flow forecasts, management accounts and projected business plans that grant panels demand.
• Structure Your Funding: Advise on how to safely structure the CEF loan alongside the grant to protect your daily cash flow.

As mentioned by our director, John Farrell:

“These new funding initiatives represent a phenomenal opportunity for manufacturing businesses in North Wales to accelerate their growth. However, the requirement to front the costs and provide 30% match funding can be a significant hurdle. So our goal at Ellis & Co is to help business owners navigate these complexities. Like structuring the CEF loan to bridge that cash flow gap safely, so they can innovate and expand without putting pressure on their daily operations.”

With that in mind, don’t leave funding on the table!

If you’re a Flintshire or Wrexham-based manufacturing business ready to grow, contact the Ellis & Co team today. Let’s review your project together, crunch the numbers and help you put your best foot forward.

Get in touch with our team today for an initial, no-obligation consultation, and let’s ensure you’re set up for success.

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About Ellis & Co 

Ellis & Co is a leading accountancy firm specialising in accountancy & audit, bookkeeping, payroll, tax planning and business advisory services. We work with a diverse range of businesses, from start-ups to established companies, ensuring they have the financial clarity and support they need to succeed. With our team of experienced accountants based in Chester, Warrington and Wrexham, we are proud to offer personalised solutions that help businesses succeed.