The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) is a mechanism for supporting delivery of the missions as set out by the UK Government. It is designed to empower local communities stimulate economic growth and promote opportunities in all parts of the UK. The UKSPF 2025-2026 transition year allows continuation of existing projects, and support of new projects to March 2026.
For 2025-2026, Bedford Borough Council has been allocated £751,185 in total of UKSPF funding. Of this £138,692 is capital funding and £612,492 is revenue funding. In addition, through the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF), Bedford Borough has been awarded £165,675 in capital funding for 2025/2026.
UKSPF priority areas
UKSPF is designed to support investment across three priority areas:
- Communities and Place
- Supporting Local Businesses
- People and Skills
In Bedford Borough the funding is being used to support a wide range of projects that strengthen communities, support local business and help residents to develop new skills.
These include:
- Provision of support for economically inactive residents to progress into work, and ESOL and basic digital skills training.
- Support for local business through the Innovation and Growth Business Support programme with the University of Bedfordshire.
- Support for the creation of small community social enterprises to deliver care and support services in the local community.
- Capital grant schemes for rural businesses and for community organisations in the borough area.
- Enhancements to areas of the town centre to create a more attractive and enjoyable environment for residents and visitors.
- Community and cultural activities with funding for events, displays and family activities in the library, The Higgins and the town centre.
Local projects
Learn more about some of these projects being delivered across the Borough below:
Bedford Borough Innovation & Growth Business Support programme
Bedford Borough Innovation & Growth Business Support programme, an exclusive, fully-funded business support initiative for established businesses across Bedford Borough.
Delivered by the University of Bedfordshire and backed by £40,000 from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, this programme is designed to help local businesses succeed in a rapidly changing economic landscape.
Who can benefit
All established businesses in Bedford Borough, from villages to the town centres, seeking specialist support and the chance to build on their success.
What’s on offer
- One-to-one expert business guidance.
- In-person and online workshops covering finance, business planning, marketing, and digital skills.
Flexible, accessible scheduling at multiple local venues and virtually.
Why now?
Following a borough-wide business support assessment in 2025, we have prioritised bespoke guidance focusing on the real needs of businesses - urban and rural - for a more sustainable and prosperous Bedford Borough.
Visit University of Bedfordshire to find out more.
Community Social Enterprise support programme
Community Social Enterprise support programme, delivered by Community Catalysts for the Borough Council to help local residents set up or grow community micro-enterprises that support people in the local community.
What is an Enterprise?
An enterprise is simply a small business or venture, often started by one person or a small team, which in this case provides a service to meet local needs. It could be anything from offering home help to older people, companionship, or helping people live more independently.
How Community Catalysts can help
Through free workshops, one to one guidance and practical advice, Community Catalysts can help you:
Develop your idea into a sustainable small enterprise.
- Understand the legal and financial side of running your own business.
- Build the confidence and skills to get started.
- Connect with others doing similar things through their local network and directory.
You don’t need previous business experience – just passion, commitment, and a great idea to help others in your community.
Why now?
The initiative, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, is part of a wider effort to strengthen the local economy and community in Bedford Borough. By setting up your own enterprise, you’re not just starting a business, you are creating local jobs, keeping money in the area and improving the lives of people in your community.
Get started
If you’re ready to take the first step, visit Community Catalysts to learn more and connect with Elaine in the Bedford Borough team. Elaine can support you every step of the way from that first idea to launch.
