FAQs
Below are answers to ten of the most frequently asked questions for the IRF scheme. Any questions which have not been answered here can be found in the IRF4 Policy Document.
1. Will the Innovation and Resilience Fund re-open in 2026?
The previous three rounds of the Innovation and Resilience Fund were funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This scheme has now come to an end and therefore there is no funding presently available to continue with further rounds. If further funding is made available then the IRF Team hope to reopen the scheme in future years.
2. What support can I get with my application?
We recommend reading through our Policy document as it may answer any questions you have about the scheme. Our webinar recording provides advice for completing your application and FAQs. Check out the 'Guidance' section on our documents page for further information and guides to help you complete the application. If you have any project specific questions, you can email the Team at irf@eastdevon.gov.uk.
3. Can an applicant submit a full bid application without submitting an expression of interest?
No. An applicant cannot submit a full bid application without submitting an expression of interest first. Once an expression of interest has been approved by the Council, the applicant will be invited to submit a full bid.
4. How will the grant amount for a particular applicant be determined?
The applicant will request a grant amount in the application form that is based on the estimated total cost of their proposed project and the level of match-funding committed. Copies of quotes/estimates must be provided to evidence those costs. If ineligible costs are included in the application, a lower grant amount may be offered.
5. Can only larger, more established businesses apply?
No. The IRF is designed to support micro, small, and medium sized enterprises, with the majority of our recipients being micro businesses. We welcome applications from smaller businesses looking to grow and expand their operation. Lists of previous recipients and case studies are available online to give an indication of the types of projects supported by the scheme.
6. How can I measure the productivity of my business?
Productivity can be measured in lots of different ways. For the IRF scheme, productivity can be measured by the net income (profit) produced per worker. This can be calculated for a business by dividing your total annual profit by the number of people employed by the business in that year.
7. Do applicants need to pay back the grant?
No. Only in cases where a grant was paid in error, or where the terms and conditions outlined in the Funding Agreement have not been met, will the Council reclaim the funds.
8. Can applicants apply for funding to buy solar PV panels, heat pumps or other types of decarbonising equipment?
No. A separate scheme called the Carbon Action Fund (CAF) provides decarbonisation grants. The CAF is the successor to the Culture, Leisure and Tourism Fund launched in 2023.
9. Can the self-employed, sole traders and those without property costs apply?
Yes. Businesses that do not have fixed property costs or employees are still able to apply, as long as they meet the remaining eligibility criteria. This includes those who run their business from home or on a mobile basis.
10. Who counts as a business?
Social enterprises, such as Community Interest Companies or charities with a trading arm, are eligible to apply for IRF4 funding. Any social enterprise applying must engage in economic activities to be eligible. The application requires either a Company Registration Number, a Unique Tax Reference Number, a Charity Number, or a VAT number. Only organisations who can provide one of these numbers can apply.