Circular economy grants
We are offering small businesses a chance to apply for grants to help them become greener and minimise waste.
Following the success of Islington’s pioneering Circular Economy grant scheme in 2022, we are now offering a chance for a further 15 businesses to take part in our local circular revolution in 2024.
15 grants of £5,000 are on offer for small local businesses to adopt or upscale circular practices in their businesses. So, if you already operate a circular business, or if you are interested in implementing new ways of reducing waste through your business, this grant scheme is for you.
About the circular economy
Circular economy is about keeping goods, materials, and resources in use for as long as possible. This can mean reusing or finding new uses for goods and products, designing out waste and single use, and repairing things like your clothes and electricals.
We want to make minimising waste the norm, for residents, consumers, and our thriving small business community. The circular economy is key to Islington’s Net Zero Vision 2030, and our small businesses can play a key role in that journey and help Islington become a greener, less wasteful, more inclusive borough.
Apply for a grant
The scheme will launch early May 2024. Keep an eye on this page and sign up to Islington’s Business Bulletin, where we will announce the launch. You need to enter your email address and tick the ‘Business Support’ box (as well as any other newsletters you want to receive) to make sure you get the right bulletin.
How applications will be assessed
We will be using ReLondon’s definition of circular economy as a basis to assess our applications. So, applicants must demonstrate at least one of the following circular business models:
Using stuff wisely – using recycled materials to make something new, and/or minimising waste by making the most out of every bit of material.
Using stuff again – finding new uses for waste; capturing materials at the end of their first life and using them again for a different purpose. Or extending products life by repairing.
Making things well – designing things to last as long as possible and ensuring that they can be maintained, re-used, and repaired.
Renting, not buying – leasing products to minimise the amount of people purchasing rarely-used products. Common examples include DIY and garden tools such as lawnmowers, and kitchen equipment such as pasta makers and bread makers.
Sharing – getting maximum value and use out of underutilised products, buildings, and vehicles by providing access to sharing platforms, such as Hiyacar, AirBnB or Nuw.
How the project is funded
This project is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.