Miller Homes has announced the launch of a new £150,000 fund to help local business start-ups within the Leith and Bonnington area.

Created by the City of Edinburgh Council using funds donated by the housebuilder, the core purpose of the Bonnington Micro Business Fund (BMBF) is to provide support to businesses to locate and or grow within the area.

Miller Homes will soon launch a development in Bonnington which the firm said is home to a thriving and ever-growing business community.

Arthur Mann, strategic land director for Scotland at Miller Homes, said: “The business community in Leith and Bonnington is really exciting, and Miller Homes is proud to support these independent businesses and help them grow.

“Our Bonnington development is due to launch early in the New Year and we are thrilled to be able to support the community and provide a number of businesses with a springboard to thrive in the area.”

Councillor Gavin Barrie added: “City of Edinburgh Council is delighted to work with Miller Homes on the distribution of these funds and would like to extend a thank you to the housebuilder for its generous contribution. A number of local businesses will benefit from the Bonnington Micro Business Fund, allowing the local community to continue to flourish.”

Businesses, social enterprises and other not-for-profit businesses wishing to apply to the BMBF must be currently engaged in the sale of products and services. The grant is open to businesses trading in wards 12 (Leith Walk) and 13 (Leith) within the city of Edinburgh Council ward boundaries.

Grants are capped at £15,000 per applicant and applications will be approved by the City of Edinburgh Council.