Greater Manchester businesses can now get support for their journey to net zero

A new online programme designed to help Greater Manchester businesses to cut their carbon footprint and reduce their costs has been launched by GC Business Growth Hub.

‘Journey to Net Zero’ is aimed at SMEs across Greater Manchester who are at an early stage on the path to net zero emissions.

Delegates will benefit from 10 themed sessions delivered through online workshops, one-to-one advice and shared learning.

The fully-funded programme is delivered by the Hub’s environmental specialists who collectively have more than 150 years’ experience in supporting SMEs to become cleaner, greener and more profitable.

Meet them at the landmark PROGRESS21 event at Manchester Central on June 24.

Places for Journey to Net Zero are limited and businesses can apply online now to register at www.businessgrowthhub.com/netzero.

Richard Hagan is Managing Director at Rochdale manufacturer Crystal Doors, which recently won the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development.

He said: “I was a complete beginner when I met GC Business Growth Hub, but now we’re on track for net zero by 2022.

“The Hub has been the springboard for so much of what Crystal Doors has achieved, which includes reducing our carbon footprint by 75%. If we can do it, any SME can.”

Journey to Net Zero participants will be guided through what the net zero transition means for them and how to prioritise action.

At the end of the programme, they will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to develop and implement a strategic action plan to cut their emissions, minimise risk, and benefit from greener and more efficient ways of working.

They will also receive ongoing support from advisors and an opportunity to join a network of likeminded businesses, which will offer the programme’s alumni access to latest news, best practice and networking opportunities.

Mark Atherton, Director of Environment at Greater Manchester Combined Authority, said: “Climate change is a fundamental threat to Greater Manchester’s current and future economy.

“To get to carbon neutral by 2038, we all need to play our part to achieve an urgent and significant reduction in carbon emissions.

“I urge all Greater Manchester SME businesses to access this fully-funded programme of support to reduce their environmental impacts, while also building a more robust and profitable business.”

GC Business Growth Hub is part of The Growth Company and part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

Environmental Business Advisor at the Hub, Claire Scott, added: “Every business needs to act now to help achieve Greater Manchester’s target of becoming net zero carbon by 2038.

“This programme will give you expert support, at no cost, to help you cut your carbon footprint and reduce costs. You don’t need to have any prior knowledge or understanding of net zero to join.

“Acting on climate change now will help businesses to grow, adapt and seize new opportunities.”

Businesses looking to access specialist support can visit www.businessgrowthhub.com for more information about the organisation’s extensive range of services. This and other GC Business Growth Hub projects are part-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the GM Business Growth Hub project designed to help ambitious SME businesses achieve growth and increase employment in Greater Manchester. The Hub is also supported by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Greater Manchester local authorities.