If you’re a business owner in Tonbridge and Malling looking to make your premises more sustainable, there’s good news. Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council is offering Green Business Grants to support local businesses in reducing their carbon footprint — and your business might be eligible.
Whether you’re replacing outdated equipment, improving energy efficiency, or planning a greener fit-out, this scheme could help cover the cost.
Here’s everything you need to know about the grant — from how much you can get to how to apply.
What Is the Green Business Grant?
The Green Business Grant is a capital grant of up to £5,000, covering up to 40% of eligible project costs. It’s part of the Council’s wider climate change and economic recovery strategies, funded in part by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) — a government initiative supporting local businesses and communities.
This scheme is aimed at businesses in the Tonbridge and Malling Borough that operate from commercial premises and want to reduce their carbon footprint through projects such as:
- Upgrading to energy-efficient equipment or machinery
- Making energy improvements to commercial buildings
- Installing greener infrastructure (e.g., LED lighting, insulation, solar panels)
Who Can Apply?
All independent businesses based in Tonbridge and Malling and trading from commercial premises can apply. However, priority will be given to businesses in the following sectors if the scheme is oversubscribed:
- Food production
- Tourism and hospitality
- Distribution and logistics
- Construction
- Independent retail
Businesses must:
- Operate from commercial premises
- Either own the property or have at least 2 years remaining on their lease
- Not be a multinational, franchise, national chain, or operate more than five properties
- Not have already received the maximum amount of permitted public subsidy
What Will the Grant Cover?
The grant will contribute towards 40% of the total eligible costs, up to a maximum of £5,000. If your business is VAT-registered, the VAT will not be counted towards your eligible costs.
Let’s say you’ve been quoted £4,000 + VAT = £4,800 total. The grant would be calculated on the £4,000, meaning a maximum grant of £1,600.
Note: If your proposed works have already started or are already completed, they will not be eligible.
What Do You Need to Apply?
Before submitting your application, you’ll need to prepare the following:
✅ A completed application form (download the example form to help you plan your responses)
✅ A recent bank statement
✅ At least three quotes from contractors for the proposed work
✅ A detailed cost breakdown and a preferred contractor
✅ A work programme from your contractor
✅ Commentary on whether planning permission is required
The grant offer is usually based on the lowest quote received, so be sure your quotes are clear and comparable.
Do You Need Planning Permission?
If your proposed works will change the exterior of your building (especially if it’s Listed or in a Conservation Area), you might need planning approval or building regulations consent.
Planning permission isn’t a deal-breaker — but you must secure all necessary permissions before any funding is paid out. If you’re unsure whether permission is needed, you’re encouraged to contact the Planning Department at the council or submit a Lawful Development Certificate proposal.
How and When Do You Apply?
🗓️ Deadline to apply: 5pm on 28 May 2025
You’ll need to:
- Read the Green Business Grant Guidance Notes carefully.
- Gather all required documents and quotes.
- Complete and submit the online application form (pages time out after 10 minutes of inactivity, so prepare your answers in advance).
- Wait for a decision — the council aims to respond within four weeks after the deadline.
Applications will be reviewed by a panel of Council officers from departments like planning, finance, and economic regeneration.
What Happens If You’re Approved?
If successful, you’ll receive a formal Grant Offer Letter, giving you nine months to complete your project.
The grant will be paid retrospectively, once you’ve:
- Completed the works
- Submitted receipted invoices and photos
- Shown proof of any required permissions
In exceptional cases, stage payments can be arranged to support your cash flow.
Final Notes
- Grants are discretionary and limited, so apply early.
- Preference will be given to priority sectors if the scheme is oversubscribed.
- If you have questions about eligibility or permissions, contact the council directly.
Would you apply for this grant? Have your say
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