Eligible Expenditure

Software Subscription Fees

Funding is available for the purchase of business software that is new to the business for a subscription period of up to one year. To qualify for the grant, businesses must first pay the full cost of the annual subscription. Only off-the-shelf software is eligible; increasing the number of licences for existing software is not supported.

Examples of eligible software include:

  • E-commerce platforms – Tools for managing online stores and sales.
  • Website development software – Eligible if it is a subscription-based solution new to the business. Note: bespoke website development is not supported under the Grow Digital Voucher scheme.
  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems – For managing customer interactions and relationships.
  • Online booking, payment, or appointment solutions – Platforms that streamline client interactions and transactions.
  • Job tracking and field service management tools – Software to enhance operational efficiency.
  • Order management or stock control systems – Solutions for inventory management and order processing.
  • Industry-specific cloud-based SaaS solutions – Must be new to the business.
  • Workflow and field management software – Tools for improving process efficiency.
  • Electronic invoicing or e-signature tools – Solutions for digitising administrative tasks.
  • Standard office software – Email, documents, or spreadsheets, provided the business is not already using these tools.
  • Cybersecurity software – Must be a new implementation within the business.
  • Cloud-based accounting or payroll software – Ideal for businesses transitioning to cloud systems.
  • 3D modelling software – Includes tools such as building information modelling (BIM).
  • Analytics platforms – Includes solutions powered by artificial intelligence (AI) for data-driven insights.

Good Examples of Eligible Software:

  • Shopify – A comprehensive e-commerce platform for managing an online store.
  • HubSpot CRM – A tool for managing customer relationships and sales pipelines.
  • Xero or QuickBooks – Cloud-based accounting software designed for small and medium businesses.
  • Calendly – A simple tool for booking appointments online.
  • DocuSign – For managing e-signatures and electronic invoicing.
  • Slack – A communication tool to improve team collaboration.

Examples That May Not Qualify:

  • WordPress – If the subscription includes bespoke website development or extensive customisation. However, a pre-configured subscription package with no bespoke work may qualify.
  • Adding licences to existing software – For example, increasing the number of users on Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace does not qualify.
  • Custom or bespoke software development – Tailor-made platforms or tools created specifically for the business are not eligible.
  • Renewals for existing software subscriptions – Only software that is new to the business is eligible.

Training and/or IT Configuration

Financial support is also available for:

  • Expert setup and integration of new software systems or ICT processes.
  • Training for management and staff to ensure the successful adoption of new tools and maximise their value.

Conditions:

  • The combined costs for training and configuration cannot exceed 50% of the software subscription fees.