Green Start

What is Green for Business

Small Changes. Big Impact!

 

As a business owner, you’ll understand the growing importance of sustainability, both in business and in the world around us. What you may not understand are the significant benefits that it can have for your company, on everything from efficiencies to cost savings.

Green for Business is a FREE programme that helps small businesses take the first step towards becoming more sustainable, giving you access to a green consultant who’ll show you the small changes that can have a big impact on your company - and the world around you.

Developing a ‘greener’ policy can offer many benefits to your business, including: • Increased cost savings • Improved resource efficiency (for example: using less energy, water, and materials) • Reduced environmental footprint and greenhouse gas emissions • Opportunities for higher and additional value on products and services • Increased access to customers, improved corporate image and reputation. • Increased resilience to climate change impacts

 

Eligibility

 

  • The programme is open to all enterprises with 1-50 employees except those involved in activities that the Local Enterprise Offices consider as ineligible for example primary agricultural businesses - farms or as involving an unacceptable reputational risk: gambling including ‘gaming’ (as defined in the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956), adult entertainment, tobacco products and cannabis-based products which are not authorised as medicines)
  • The enterprise must be established, registered and operate within the geographic location of the Local Enterprise Office
  • The enterprise must operate in the commercial sphere
  • Turnover is in excess of €30,000 annually.
  • The business is trading in excess of 6 months.
  • Companies forming part of a holding group, franchise, linked companies etc. are only permitted to make one application. Multiple applications will not be considered.

How does Green For Business work?

 

There are two main steps.

Step 1Watch the Webinar

 

Learn everything you need to know about Green Business and Sustainability Supports offered by the LEO including Green for Business; Green Start and the Energy Efficiency Grant. Including a first-hand account of a business which has already implemented green initiatives and is enjoying the benefits. Watch back on demand here: Green for Business - Lunch & Learn - YouTube

Step 2:  Apply for Green for Business

 

Apply for two days of mentoring with a specialist Green Consultant – this will include recommendations on specific changes which your business can implement. Your specific needs will be matched to the Green Consultant’s area of expertise. Your Consultant will prepare a detailed Green for Business Report on your business.  Click here to apply now

Already completed the Green for Business

And still require futher support on your sustainability Journey?

You might be eligible for the Energy Efficiency Grant.

The Energy Efficiency Grant supports the investment in technologies and equipment identified in a Green for Business Report, GreenStart Report or a SEAI Energy Audit with 75% of eligible costs up to a maximum grant of €10,000. The aim of the scheme is to reduce the impact of enterprises on the environment thereby increasing the agility and resilience of these businesses.

You might be eligible for GreenStart.

GreenStart aims to improve environmental performance through greater resource efficiency helping companies achieve competitive advantage and greater market share through enhanced credentials and cost savings. Click here for eligibility and to find out more.

You might be eligible for a follow on Green for Business 

Contact your LEO Office- please click HERE