GM Advance — Advanced Manufacturing and Materials Investment Fund

GM Advance is a 10m-pound investment fund from Greater Manchester Combined Authority for advanced manufacturing and materials companies. It sits inside the Greater Manchester Investment Zone, which is backed by 160m pounds over 10 years for the sector. The fund uses subsidised financial products rather than a single grant format, with a general application track and a dedicated Micro Equity programme. It is open to start-ups and SMEs that are based in Greater Manchester or have tangible plans to relocate or expand there. The public page does not publish a standard award band, so applicants have to work from the application guidance and subsidy-control scoring notes. This is a practical regional growth route for companies that need patient capital, not a one-off contest. The strongest match is a manufacturing or materials business that can show regional connection and a concrete expansion plan. Applications are sent by email, and the structure suggests GMCA is looking for businesses that can use state-backed support to close an early funding gap.

Each grant below is a distinct funding opportunity with its own eligibility, scope, and deliverables.