THE Green Entrepreneurs’ Programme is now open for applications. It will support sustainable entrepreneurs in Essex with workshops, networking and funding opportunities to grow their business.

Cultural and environmental experts, Art Clubbers CIC will deliver the programme, which is funded by Essex County Council.

It is open to those with a green business registered within the past two years. Those in the pre-startup phase are also invited to apply. Recruitment is live until 8 September and is open to businesses across Greater Essex (Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock).

Successful applicants will embark on a nine-week online programme. This will help them develop the tools they need to grow. Content will include strategy development, marketing, finance and more. Experts, including representatives from Google and the Financial Times, will also deliver webinars.

At the end of the programme, participants will receive an invite to pitch their business to a panel of experts. One winner will receive £5,000 in seed funding to further develop their business. Two runners up will receive £2,500 each.

In addition to the formal programme, participating and non-participating entrepreneurs will receive invites to exclusive networking events. The events will help business owners to expand their networks. They will also support entrepreneurs who are not yet ready to apply for the programme.

With support, it is hoped these businesses will apply for future programmes. Recruitment re-opens in autumn and winter for further learning and funding opportunities.

The latest programme follows a pilot delivered in 2023. This saw three young green entrepreneurs receive £15,000.

Councillor Tony Ball, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability, said: “We know customers, investors and decision makers prioritise environmental factors more than ever before. That’s why it’s essential that our entrepreneurs are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to grow their business without harming the planet.

“We’re thrilled to be working with Art Clubbers CIC and expert hosts on the second year of this programme. We can’t wait to meet this year’s participants and see what the winners achieve with seed funding and ongoing support.”

Councillor Peter Schwier, Essex County Council’s Climate Czar and Cabinet Member for Environment, Waste Reduction and Recycling, added: “Last year, the Green Entrepreneurs’ Programme saw young ambitious business owners make a huge impact to our green spaces and building efficiency. Now the programme is open to even more new business owners. We are very excited to see how it will help start-ups and pre start-ups contribute towards our ambitious climate targets.”

CEO and Founder of Art Clubbers CIC, Ajay Pabial, said: “After delivering a successful pilot last year, we’re thrilled to offer a ‘bigger and better’ programme throughout 2024.

“We’re encouraging applications from all backgrounds and locations across the Greater Essex geography. Applying really does only take a few minutes and could help you take your business or idea to the next level!”

View the full eligibility criteria and apply for the Green Entrepreneurs’ Programme by Sunday 8 September.