If you’re running a small business in the UK, having fast, reliable internet is essential to the success of your business, and happiness of your staff and customers. However, we know that when installing a leased line, the upfront cost can be a significant barrier for many SMEs.
That’s where the UK Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme comes in. Relaunched for 2025, this government initiative provides funding to help small businesses cover leased line installation costs—which can potentially save you thousands!
Below, we’ll explain:
- What the Gigabit Voucher Scheme is
- Who qualifies for it in 2025
- How much funding is available
- How to apply (step-by-step)
- Which providers support the scheme
🚀 What Is the Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme?
The Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme (GBVS) is a UK Government initiative that provides grants to help businesses and rural communities upgrade to ultrafast gigabit-capable connections, such as leased lines and FTTP (fibre to the premises).
Theese vouchers are part of the Government’s Project Gigabit programme, aimed at improving digital infrastructure across the country, particularly in harder-to-reach and under-served areas.
💷 How Much Can Your Business Claim in 2025?
As of 2025, the Gigabit voucher funding available is:
- Up to £2,500 for a small business
- Up to £4,500 for group projects in eligible rural areas (when multiple businesses/residents join together)
This funding directly reduces your leased line installation cost, which can range from £1,000 to £4,000 depending on location, making high-speed connectivity more accessible.
✅ Who Is Eligible for the Voucher?
To qualify for the scheme in 2025, your business must meet the following criteria:
- Be a registered SME (Small or Medium-sized Enterprise)
- Employ fewer than 250 staff
- Have a turnover of under £44 million
- Not have access to a gigabit-capable connection currently
- Be located in an eligible area (based on postcode and broadband availability)
You can check eligibility via your supplier or on the official Gigabit Voucher postcode checker here.
📌 Did you knwo that home-based businesses may still qualify if registered and trading?
📋 How to Apply for a Gigabit Broadband Voucher (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Choose your approved supplier
You cannot apply directly—you must work with a DCMS-registered supplier who will apply on your behalf. Many leading leased line providers in the UK have already been approved.
Popular suppliers include:
👉 Remember to use our leased line comparison tool to find approved providers!
Step 2: Get a Quote
You should ask your chosen supplier for a quote for leased line installation and monthly costs, and they will check your postcode and premises to ensure they are eligible and advise you on potential voucher funding.
Step 3: Confirm the Order and Voucher Application
Once you’re happy with the quote the following should happen:
- The supplier submits the voucher request
- You will receive an email to confirm your agreement
- No funds are sent to you directly—they go to the supplier to reduce your installation bill
Step 4: Installation and Activation
Your leased line is installed and activated as agreed and the supplier then confirms completion to the scheme administrators.
📌 remember: The Voucher is only valid once the connection is live and verified.
🧾 How Long Does It Take?
- Approval: Usually within 5–10 working days after your confirmation
- Installation: Typically 30–90 days, depending on location and Openreach access
- Voucher Payment: Handled in the background; no need for you to follow up
💡 Why Use the Gigabit Voucher for a Leased Line?
Leased lines offer:
- Symmetrical speeds (same upload & download)
- 99.9% uptime SLAs
- Dedicated bandwidth
- Scalability for future growth
Using the Gigabit Voucher allows your business access to enterprise-grade connectivity without the enterprise-grade installation bill.
🔄 Can You Combine It with Other Grants?
In some cases, yes. For example, the Voucher can be used alongside:
- Local authority business growth grants
- Rural broadband initiatives
- Group/community fibre projects
Your supplier will know what’s possible based on your area and business type.
Don’t Miss Out on Free Broadband Funding!
If your business is stuck with slow or unreliable broadband, a leased line upgrade backed by a Gigabit Voucher could be the solution you’ve been waiting for. With funding available for eligible UK SMEs, there’s never been a better time to upgrade.
👉 Compare leased line providers now and find out if your business qualifies for up to £2,500 in funding through the Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme!!
Want to read more about leased lines? Check here! |