Chichester council launches new grant scheme to support greener and more resilient businesses

Chichester District Council is launching a new grant scheme to help small businesses and sole traders invest in sustainability, energy efficiency and climate resilience initiatives.

 The Business Sustainability and Climate Resilience Grant will provide eligible businesses with funding of up to £750 to invest in products and services that improve sustainability, increase energy efficiency and strengthen resilience to the impacts of climate change. The grant will cover up to 75% of project costs, with businesses contributing the remaining 25%. Full details of the scheme, including eligibility criteria and guidance on eligible projects, are available now ahead of applications opening on Wednesday 18 November, on the council's website: www.chichester.gov.uk/business-sustainability-and-climate-resilience-grant

 The grants are aimed at supporting small businesses and sole traders who have up to 10 employees and who are based in commercial premises within the Chichester District. Funding can be used to pay for a range of projects, including upgrading to LED lighting, replacing inefficient equipment, installing insulation or smart heating controls, introducing water-saving measures, reducing waste, improving energy monitoring, investing in delivery bikes, or purchasing equipment that helps businesses adapt to future climate challenges, such as battery backup systems.

 "We know from the success of our Sustainability Grant Programme earlier this year that businesses across the district are keen to reduce their environmental impact and become more sustainable,” says Councillor Harsha Desai, Cabinet Member for Growth, Economic Development, Communications, Licensing and Events at Chichester District Council.

 "This new grant scheme builds on that momentum by helping small businesses and sole traders make practical improvements that can lower costs, improve efficiency and increase resilience to the impacts of climate change. Whether it's upgrading lighting, installing smart controls or introducing water-saving measures, relatively small changes can make a real difference.

 "We're publishing the full guidance ahead of applications opening so that businesses have time to consider potential projects and gather any information they may need. This will help ensure they are ready to apply when the scheme opens later this month. Wherever possible, we're asking applicants to source eligible goods and services from suppliers within the district, helping to maximise the benefits of the scheme for our local economy."

 The new scheme builds on the council's ongoing commitment to supporting local businesses to reduce their environmental impact while improving long-term resilience. On 18 November, businesses are invited to a free Sustainable Business Showcase at the Weald & Downland Living Museum in Singleton, where they can connect with suppliers and experts, discover sustainable solutions and hear from industry speakers. Free places can be booked at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/business-sustainability-showcase-chichester-tickets-1992348739713

 The council also launched its free Giki Actions platform earlier this year, which helps businesses develop climate action plans, reduce energy costs and access practical sustainability advice. Businesses can find out more and sign up at: https://gikiactions.com/auth/signup/ChichesterGikiActions

 Further details about the Business Sustainability and Climate Resilience Grant, including eligibility criteria and guidance for applicants, are available on the council's website: www.chichester.gov.uk/business-sustainability-and-climate-resilience-grant

 The online application form will be available on this webpage from Wednesday 18 November, when applications officially open. As funding is limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, eligible businesses and sole traders are encouraged to apply as early as possible.