13/06/2025
Insights
The government has challenged businesses in the United Kingdom to help them meet their net zero targets. While lots of firms are eager to do their part on this journey to carbon neutrality, many lack the budget to take steps to improve their eco-friendliness.
These issues are especially true for small or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that have been contending with a global pandemic, economic uncertainty and rising national insurance costs in recent years. Naturally, priorities may have shifted away from sustainability as they attempt to stay afloat.
Now, however, local councils in three Yorkshire regions have stepped in to help SMEs make their operations more environmentally friendly by offering funding for sustainability upgrades. Our guide looks at the places included and how the capital can be utilised.
What can sustainability funding be used for?
Funding can be used for most projects that will improve the sustainability of your building. This could include:
- LED lighting upgrades
- Insulation installation
- Renewable energy implementation, such as solar panels
- Fleet and transport decarbonisation
Who is eligible for sustainability funding in North, South and West Yorkshire?
Sustainability funding is available for small or medium-sized enterprises. These firms have fewer than 250 employees and a turnover of less than £36 million. SMEs accounted for 98.8% of the 5.5 million UK businesses at the start of 2024.
What sustainability funding is available for each region?
A combined £4.5 million worth of capital support will be made available to the three Yorkshire regions. However, each location’s grant scheme differs slightly.
North Yorkshire
Grants of between £2,000 and £49,950 are available, accounting for up to 60% of a project’s total cost. The project must be delivered by February 2026 to qualify.
South Yorkshire
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund Low Carbon Project is separated into two categories. Projects costing less than £20,000 will receive 50% of the costs from the scheme, while those more expensive than £20,000 will receive £10,000 exactly. The caveat of this grant is that it must be delivered by December 2025.
West Yorkshire
Support for West Yorkshire SMEs can either cover 30% of a project’s price or 50% of external sustainability consultancy costs.
How do I apply for sustainability funding for my SME?
Each scheme’s website has instructions for grant applications. However, we recommend using our sustainability team to increase your chances of approval. We will conduct an energy audit of your business for a small fee before writing an application on your behalf.
Our teams have a track record of having tenders accepted and are confident we can secure sustainability funding for your firm too.
Discuss your funding options with our sustainability team now
Are you ready to make your SME more sustainable? Call 0800 051 2593 or complete the form below to discuss your needs with our advisors. We will then be able to arrange a free consultation with our sustainability team, who can plan and execute your proposal.
In the meantime, consider reading some of our case studies and reviews to see how we have helped other individuals and companies in the past.
