Farms and businesses across York and North Yorkshire have a fresh opportunity to cut costs and carbon this year, thanks to a new round of sustainability funding.

The Business Sustainability Programme, backed by the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, is offering grants of up to £49,950 for projects that turn energy audit recommendations into real-world action.

From Audits to Action

Over the past two years, many local companies have benefitted from free energy audits and renewable feasibility studies. These identified practical steps – everything from insulation and LED lighting to renewable energy systems – that could reduce emissions, improve efficiency and cut energy costs. Now, funding is available to make those ideas a reality.

A Farmer’s Success Story

One North Yorkshire farmer, Mark Dinsdale of Low Gill Farm, has already seen the benefits. After securing funding in a previous round, he installed an anaerobic digester that has hugely reduced his reliance on the national grid within just 10 days. Soon, his farm expects to be exporting clean energy back into the system.

“This project will put us in a good position, keeping us in dairying and going forward to achieve net zero,” he said.

Why It Matters

For Mayor David Skaith, the programme is about both survival and ambition. He emphasised that while farmers and local businesses face intense pressures, from energy prices to climate change, they also play a vital role in building a greener economy.

“Farmers across York and North Yorkshire are at the forefront of feeding the UK… That’s why we’ve made £1.9 million available through our Business Sustainability Programme. This will support farmers to cut their energy bills and emissions, all while contributing to our region’s ambition to become net zero by 2034.”

Who Can Apply?

The programme isn’t just for farms. Any business in York and North Yorkshire that has been trading for at least two years and completed an energy audit in the last three years can apply. Landlords of commercial units and business parks are also eligible.

Key points at a glance:

• Funding available: £2,000 – £49,950
• Funding split: Up to 60% covered by the programme, with at least 40% match funding from applicants
• Eligible projects include:
  • Building retrofits (e.g. insulation, lighting)
  • Renewable energy and storage systems
  • Waste reduction and resource efficiency
  • Climate resilience and biodiversity improvements
  • Decarbonising business fleets (EVs, chargers, etc.)

Applications close on Friday 19th September, so get yours in as soon as you can! Learn more about the scheme and how to apply here. Or contact the Growth Team directly with any queries and they’ll point you in the right direction.

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