A guide to green business and sustainability grants and loans for UK SMEs

By
Dan Martin
-
0
19

Making your business more sustainable has several benefits. Not only does it benefit the environment but it also helps to reduce business costs amid rising energy prices and attract new customers who increasingly expect companies they spend their money with to have green credentials.

One barrier to going green though is the initial costs of making the change. However, there are several green business grants and other funding schemes available to help. We have listed the latest below and will keep this page updated.

Green business grants and loans

Boiler Upgrade Scheme

Through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, you could get a grant to cover part of the cost of replacing fossil fuel heating systems with a heat pump or biomass boiler. Find out more.

Workplace Charging Scheme

This grant provides up to 75% towards the costs of the purchase, installation and infrastructure of electric vehicle chargepoints at eligible places of work.

The scheme is open until 31 March 2027. Find out more.

Grants for zero emissions vehicles

Some new zero emission vehicles are eligible for a government grant to reduce the cost. You do not apply for the grant. The seller includes it as a discount in the purchase price. Find out more.

UK Research and Innovation R&D funding

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) runs various funding competitions focused on R&D projects to help businesses be more sustainable. Check this page for the latest funding.

SME Loan and Cashback Scheme in Scotland

Loans up to £100,000 are available to help Scottish businesses pay for energy and carbon-saving upgrades. You could also receive a cashback grant of up to £30,000. Find out more.

Development Bank of Wales Green Business Loan Scheme

This scheme for Welsh businesses offers discounted fixed interest rates on green business loans for energy efficiency measures and low carbon heat installations. It also provides access to fully and part-funded consultancy support that helps businesses understand decarbonisation. Find out more.

Local green business grants and other support

Many local authorities and combined authorities provide grants and other support for businesses wanting to improve their sustainability. Examples include:

To find out what’s available in your area, contact your local council.

You can also access the UK government’s finance finder and find a grant services, as well as business funding directories run by the Scottish government, Welsh Government and Invest Northern Ireland.