Help at hand

We are here to help by giving businesses practical support and guidance to become more sustainable, with stories from your sector and finance from us if you need it.

 

 

 

Benefits of becoming a greener business

Benefits for your business, your people and your reputation.

Reduced costs

By adopting green solutions, you can save money by reducing waste, retaining employees, and cutting energy costs.

Green reputation

As we all become more conscientious consumers and employees, businesses will do better with a green reputation.

As businesses, we can inspire actions that protect our world for future generations.



Changes your business can make

We all have a role to play in the fight against climate change. Read on to find out more about how your business can support and where to get help.

 Implement green policies/goals - procurement, waste and energy reduction. 

 Remote working - reduce the number of commuters to lower greenhouse gas emissions.

 Packaging overhaul - is it all needed, is there a better kinder way to distribute products?

 Consider solar panels to supply own energy.

 Transport – consider investment in green transport for supply and delivery.

 Consider investment in higher rated / more energy efficient technology.

 Offset your carbon footprint.

 If you need to print a document, only use recycled or certified paper products.

 

SME Steps to Sustainability

 

Find support and guidance on how to become more sustainable in your operations through this dedicated resource for SME businesses

 

 

Support for business

Together we can work towards mitigating climate change. Read on to discover how your business can make a difference and where to find support.

Grants and Funding

Environment Fund 2023 – 2028
Administered by Department of Agriculture Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to support projects which will help deliver key environmental outcomes across Northern Ireland.

DAERA
DAERA also offer a wide range of grants and funding to support local farms, fisheries, rural businesses, communities and environmental NGOs.

Invest NI
Support and funding to help businesses operate more efficiently, minimise waste, reduce costs and reduce environmental impact. They also offer business mentorship.

Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme
Fully / part funded schemes to help businesses become more energy efficient while also reducing carbon emissions.

Education and advice

Netregs
Environmental guidance for businesses in Northern Ireland & Scotland, includes free e-Learning tools. Businesses can also check compliance with ESG regulation, identifying any areas for improvement.

Carbon Trust
Advice and support to businesses looking to improve their environmental performance, with a focus on net zero transition planning and delivery.

Energy Saving Trust
Insight, advice, training and consultancy services covering home energy efficiency, low carbon transport, and renewable energy generation.

 

 

Adopting energy-efficient solutions for your business

You can save money by investing a little in insulation, efficient lighting, and heating systems, which will save you money long term.

 

man on bicycle looking into town with apartment block covered in green ivy

Ways to save your business money

 Invest in energy-efficient solutions today to reduce energy bills and save money for your business. Sometimes, financing your project costs less than the savings it produces.

 We have ways to help finance your energy efficiency project. So why not keep cash in your business and finance your energy efficient project with us?

 

    

Business finance options

If you need financial support for implementing these changes, we can help.

Business Loans

Need extra finance for your business? Take control with a Business Loan.

Business Overdraft

Flexibility of having extra funds when your business needs it.

Asset Finance

We will support you in getting the assets you need to take the next step with your business.

Important/Regulatory Information

The above content is expressed in broad terms and is limited to general information purposes only. Readers should always seek professional advice to address issues arising in specific contexts and not seek to rely on the above information which does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by AIB (NI).
 
Some of the links above bring you to external websites. Your use of an external website is subject to the terms of that site.
 
Lending criteria, terms and conditions apply. Credit facilities are subject to repayment capacity and financial status and are not available to persons under 18 years of age. Security may be required.

We adhere to the Standards of Lending Practice for Business Customers which sets standards for banks when dealing with lending and overdrafts for business customers. You can get more information on the Standards from any branch or at www.lendingstandardsboard.org.uk. Under the Standards we have also developed a Statement of Lender and Borrower Responsibilities to ensure that the relationship works well for both of us.