14 October 2021
Surrey County Council launches new funding for small businesses to become more green
On 30 September, Surrey County Council launched LoCASE, Low Carbon Across the South and East. The programme will provide grant funding for small and medium-sized business to make their business more green – either through launching new eco products or services, or through reducing the environmental impact of their operations.
Grants of up to £10,000 are available, along with environmental training and events. The grant will form up to 40% of the cost of the eligible project, with the remainder matched by the business. All eligible small or medium sized businesses in Surrey will be given equal opportunity to apply for a grant or support.
Cllr Marisa Heath, Surrey County Council Cabinet Member for the Environment, said, “Supporting the green economy is an essential part of achieving our overall targets of being carbon net zero as a council by 2030 and as a county by 2050. We recognise the significant contribution small and medium-sized business make to the economy In Surrey and we’re delighted to be able to offer this opportunity to help them grow.”
The grant can be used for a variety of different things including (but not limited to) low-carbon or renewable upgrades to building heating, lighting and insultation, replacing office equipment with more energy-efficient versions, or energy-savings operational equipment such as automatic closing doors to cold stores.
In addition, businesses who offer ‘green’ goods and services could use the funding for product development costs such as product testing, specialist advice or patent lawyers, support through accreditation or certification, IT equipment or plant machinery, or marketing and advertising costs.
Alongside funding, businesses can also get training and support, and sector-based advice on opportunities for energy and resource efficiency.
LoCASE uses funding from the European Regional Development Fund and is being run as part of a project alongside other councils and organisations in the South East.
Watch Xavier Font, Professor of Sustainability Marketing from the University of Surrey, explain why LoCASE is good for your business.
For more information and to apply, visit the LoCASE website www.locase.co.uk or visit the Surrey County Council website for more details.
