Glow Up Grant

For businesses in the centres of Bangor, Newtownards, Comber, Donaghadee and Holywood seeking to make shopfront improvements. Funded by Department for Communities and Ards and North Down Borough Council.

Glow Up Grant - Supporting Thriving High Streets

Open for applications from 9am on Monday 23 June 2025

Offering eligible businesses, the opportunity to enhance their shop frontage.

Grant funding will be made available for active businesses in the urban centres of Bangor, Newtownards, Comber, Donaghadee and Holywood seeking to make shopfront enhancements.

£550,000 grant support is available, funded by the Department for Communities (£500,000) and Ards and North Down Borough Council (£50,000)

This is a capital grant scheme that will provide a one-off grant of up to £2,500 per property to support up to 90% of shopfront improvement costs. A 10% contribution is required from the applicant.

The scheme will open for applications at 9am on Monday 23 June 2025 and is due to close at 12noon on Friday 01 August 2025 or sooner should all funding be awarded.

Please note that the Glow Up Grant Scheme operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so early application submission is highly encouraged.

All successful applicants will be required to complete the works no later than 01 March 2026.

Dates for your Diary

To find out more, register your interest to attend one of our upcoming online information sessions:

Tuesday 17 June 2025 6pm
Wednesday 18 June 2025 2pm
Thursday 19 June 2025 10am

These sessions will provide further information on the application process and provide an opportunity to ask any questions. Registration is required, contact glowupgrant@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

Download the applicant guidance document below to help you prepare in advance of the scheme opening. The guidance provides information on eligibility, the application process, the required documentation and the terms and conditions.

For enquiries, please contact glowupgrant@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk