Support for businesses to become greener
“Going green is no longer the preserve of large corporates. All businesses, regardless of size are now expected to have sustainability embedded in their business whether it’s packaging or production.”
Those were the words of Emma Jones, Founder and CEO of Enterprise Nation which this week revealed details about a new programme called Plan it With Purpose which Cork businesses are being encouraged to take part in.
It aims to give 10,000 small businesses across Ireland training in environmental, social and governance (ESG) thanks to a partnership with AIB, GS1 and Enterprise Nation.
Over 12 months, small and medium size businesses will receive free support via a purpose-built online platform, including a diagnostic tool, elearning content and access to experts from the sustainability sector.
The programme will run virtually, including events, in an effort to reduce the impacts of climate change and increase social purpose for good within the Irish business community.
The programme will also include the Exchange Series where entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to receive guidance on what sustainability and ESG measures they need to factor in if they want to become suppliers to large corporates.
The first session will focus on food and drink with Sodexo. Other Exchange Series topics include fashion, beauty and wellness.
Emma Jones, Founder and CEO of Enterprise Nation, said: “Not only do customers expect and demand it, for any business looking to partner or supply a larger company, it will inevitably be required for procurement. And yet, a third of Irish businesses are only starting to address climate change. The drive towards sustainability has so far been customer-driven.
“What needs to happen next is for the small business community to respond and build responsible brands, while increasing profitability,” she added.
AIB research carried out in July 2022 found that sustainability has become an increasingly important factor when making business decisions.
Over the past 2 years, 44% of businesses have demanded more sustainable actions from their suppliers or switched to more sustainable suppliers.
See Enterprisenation.com for more information.