Funding and grants
What Is the Difference Between a Grant, a Loan and Equity Funding?
A grant generally supports a specified purpose under award conditions. A loan creates repayment obligations. Equity involves ownership and investor rights. Read the actual agreement: the label used in an advert does not reveal all the conditions or costs.
Quick answer
A grant generally supports a specified purpose under award conditions. A loan creates repayment obligations. Equity involves ownership and investor rights. Read the actual agreement: the label used in an advert does not reveal all the conditions or costs.
What to do next
Check repayment obligations.
Check whether ownership rights are involved.
Read reporting milestones and permitted uses.
A practical example
A programme described as support may combine training with a repayable facility. Compare the written terms before treating the full advertised amount as money the business can spend without repayment.
Before you act
Keep an evidence folder behind the application, with consistent dates and figures. Programme eligibility, documents and award conditions differ. This is preparation guidance, not a claim that a particular grant is open or that funding will be awarded.
Get the right support
Ask CredaBiz about funding and grants. Explain what you have already completed and the outcome you need so the team can confirm the scope and current quote.
Sources and further reading
Researched 29 October 2026. Practical examples are CredaBiz editorial guidance. Check current official instructions for your specific circumstances.
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