Business Productivity and Digitisation Grant

The Business Productivity and Digitisation Grant Scheme supports small and medium-sized enterprises in South Yorkshire to improve productivity, increase efficiency and drive business growth. Although the scheme is now closed to new applications, it has already supported more than 200 Sheffield businesses, creating over 100 new jobs and enabling the introduction of more than 120 new products or processes. Delivered through local council business support teams, Sheffield-based applicants work directly with Business Advisors who help diagnose productivity challenges, develop project proposals and measure the impact of implemented changes.

The scheme provides two types of grants: productivity grants of £5,000 to £12,500 and digital innovation grants of £2,500 to £5,000. Businesses must contribute 50% of project costs, with grants supporting both revenue and capital investments, such as specialist consultancy, equipment, machinery or premises improvements. Case studies highlight the diverse impact of the scheme—from helping breweries expand production capacity to enabling design companies to adopt advanced 3D printing technology and supporting care providers in upgrading digital systems.

To qualify, businesses must have Sheffield-based commercial premises, have traded for at least 12 months for grants above £5,000, and be able to deliver and fully fund project costs upfront before claiming the grant. Only one grant is permitted per business, and certain sectors—such as gambling and single‑use vape products—are excluded. The application process involves eligibility checks, Monthly project submission panels, project assessment and panel approval before a grant offer is issued.

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