Small Business Britain and BT have joined forces to launch a new initiative aimed at helping small businesses improve their sustainability practices. The BT Sustainability for Small Business programme offers a series of six-week courses covering key topics such as digital marketing, financial planning, and social media strategies, all delivered by industry experts. Additionally, the programme includes one-hour webinars focusing on environmental measurement, accreditation, and financing.
According to research conducted by Small Business Britain and Oxford Brookes Business School, 64 percent of small businesses feel they lack the support needed to become more sustainable. In response to this finding, BT and Small Business Britain have introduced this new resource to empower small businesses across the UK to better understand their environmental impacts and embrace sustainable practices.
Chris Sims, managing director of small and medium business at BT, emphasized the importance of sustainability for all businesses, regardless of size. He highlighted the initiative’s goal of helping entrepreneurs reduce their CO2 emissions, implement lasting sustainability principles, and contribute to the UK’s net zero agenda.
In addition to the online resources, the partners are planning to organize ‘Netwalks’, outdoor walks that provide entrepreneurs with networking opportunities with other local businesses. Michelle Ovens, founder of Small Business Britain, emphasized the growing importance of sustainability for small businesses and the opportunities it presents for growth and positive change.
The new programme aims to provide small businesses with the guidance, support, and direction needed to upskill in the area of sustainability and play a crucial role in driving forward the green agenda.