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Retail Development Programme

WARNING:


The RDP and BDG funding can be accessed directly through this website. The city council has not authorised/endorsed any consultants to assist with funding applications, and we strongly recommend that you do not pay a fee or any commission to a consultant to progress your application.

This support package is designed to be free to access, and there is support already in place. Business link offer free support to help complete your BDG application, and a city council project officer will provide guidance with your RDP application, so there is no need for you to incur consultancy costs.

If your business is based in the areas of Sutton Coldfield, Stratford Road, Acocks Green and Alum Rock, please be careful as there are consultants operating in these areas offering this service, who are not authorised by Birmingham City Council.


There has been a very high level of interest in this programme and we have received 200 enquiries since the project started in October 2009. We are trying to deal with this unprecedented level of interest as quickly as possible. Please be assured that we will contact you about your enquiry in the near future.

The Retail Development Programme is funded by the Working Neighbourhood Fund and runs until March 2011. It is aimed specifically at supporting new and existing independent retailers, citywide.

Birmingham City Council will manage and deliver the programme in partnership with the Local Town Centre Managers.

Financial Assistance provided by Birmingham City Council will include a grant award between £2,500 and £10,000 towards the set-up and marketing of your business, including the following:

  • Installation (heating & lighting)
  • Fascia improvements (shop fitting & signage)
  • Connections (fax, telephone, broadband)
  • Equipment (up to £1000 of the grant can be used to purchase equipment)
  • Professional fees (solicitors, surveyors, designers)
  • Marketing/Branding
  • Rent and rates**
  • Removal costs**

Please note that it is the applicants responsibility to seek planning permission (if required) for any internal/external alterations made to the business premises

* Grant equivalent to 50% of eligible costs, subject to satisfying criteria and approval of the application by an awarding panel.

** Rent, rates and removal costs are an eligible cost only if the project involves a move to new premises.

Support provided by Town Centre Managers in Local Centres:

  • General advice and providing access to the Programme
  • Local support to businesses

Contact Information

If you would like further information, please contact your Town Centre Manager in the first instance.

If your area is not mentioned on the list, please complete the attached RDP Enquiry Form and send by email to shasta.rashid@birmingham.gov.uk.

Please note: Some types of businesses do not qualify for this grant. Please see the attachment below to check whether your business is ineligible before proceeding further with your application.

You are also not eligible to apply for this grant if you are unemployed and claiming benefits


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