Hello Luke,
I am replying for two reasons. The local chamber of commerce sounds pretty good to me or your local business link. Whilst they may not have funding they may know of another government initiative where some form of funding for a business start up may be obtained. Some years ago I recall that funding for the 1st employee was available via the C of C but things may have now changed. My guess is that there is something out there which may involve your brother attending some course himself prior to funding being made available.
My second reason for replying to your question is that I am thinking about going into plumbing via a fast track route and wondered if you or your brother may be able to offer me some form of guidance about getting going once I have completed my course.
Regards
Richard