Mid and East Antrim shop front grants of up to £7,500 now open

Town centre businesses across Mid and East Antrim can now apply for shop front improvement grants worth between £500 and £7,500.

The Town Centre Shop Front Revitalisation Scheme 2026/27 can cover up to 80% of the total cost of approved works.

Applications close at 4pm on Monday 7 September 2026.

Apply online for the Shop Front Revitalisation Scheme

Grants available for town centre businesses

Businesses across Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Larne are being encouraged to consider improving their shop fronts through the latest round of town centre revitalisation funding.

The Town Centre Shop Front Revitalisation Scheme 2026/27 is being delivered by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council in partnership with the Department for Communities.

Eligible businesses can apply for grants ranging from £500 to £7,500, covering up to 80% of the cost of approved works.

The funding aims to improve the appearance of commercial premises while making local town centres more attractive places to shop, visit and do business.

Previous revitalisation funding has supported shop front improvements across the borough, including projects in Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Larne.

What can the shop front grant cover?

The funding is focused on external improvements that enhance the appearance of a business premises and the wider streetscape.

Businesses interested in applying should check the full eligibility criteria and scheme guidance before starting work or committing to expenditure.

You can find information about council business support through:

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council – Business Support

Businesses can also search for other available funding through:

Northern Ireland Business Support Finder

Up to 80% of approved costs available

The Mid and East Antrim shop front grants can cover up to 80% of the total cost of approved works, subject to the scheme’s terms and conditions.

The minimum grant available is £500, while eligible projects can receive up to £7,500.

This means businesses will normally need to provide a contribution towards the overall cost of their proposed improvements.

Shop Front Revitalisation Scheme deadline

Businesses interested in applying should make sure their application is completed before:

4pm on Monday 7 September 2026

Applications can be made online using the official application link below.

Apply for the Town Centre Shop Front Revitalisation Scheme