The funding has been awarded to the council via the Rural England Prosperity Fund.
£838,120 in capital funding has been allocated for a two year period and will form the basis of a business grants programme, that will launch later this year.
Rural businesses will be able to apply for funding for projects that lead to job safeguarding, enhanced productivity and modernisation.
A small amount of funding will also be used to enhance tourism by developing a Wealden Visitor Trail.
Town and parish councils along with community organisations will also be invited to apply for funding for projects that improve the natural environment. Some funding could also be allocated to roll-out further electric vehicle charging points.