NatWest and Green Economy partner with the aim to accelerate sustainable growth for Greater Manchester businesses

NatWest has announced a new partnership with Green Economy, the Greater Manchester based social enterprise, with the aim to help businesses across the region navigate rising energy costs, reduce carbon emissions and unlock sustainable growth.

The partnership brings together NatWest’s Sustainability Solutions platform with Green Economy’s specialist, fully funded business support to provide practical assistance for organisations in the region..

The partnership was announced at a launch event hosted by NatWest in their flagship Manchester office, Spinningfields on Thursday 16 July. It featured energy expert Kate Mulvany sharing insights on the practical steps businesses can take to manage ongoing cost pressures while progressing towards a low carbon economy.

Through this collaboration, Greater Manchester businesses will be able to access a comprehensive package of support, including:

• Expert energy and resource efficiency reviews and carbon reduction planning
• Access to funding, grants and green technology suppliers
• Market intelligence, innovation support and routes to new customers
• Carbon literacy training and workforce upskilling
• Practical tools, data insights and compliance guidance

This package is complemented by NatWest’s free Sustainability Planner, which can help UK businesses build an understanding of their environmental impact and operational considerations and identify potential cost saving opportunities on their journey to more sustainable growth.

Businesses can also access the NatWest Sustainability Solutions platform, which brings together products and partners to support sustainable transitions for buildings and vehicles, and bring actionable insights. Both are now available to businesses to use.

As part of its wider Growing Together strategy, NatWest is working alongside regional partners, local authorities and businesses to help mobilise investment into infrastructure, energy systems and decarbonisation.

The bank has also outlined an ambition to help unlock £20 billion of investment in the North in areas such as clean energy, transport, housing and climate resilience to help drive regional economic growth.

Jonathan Brewer, Director Commercial Banking, Commercial Mid-Market at NatWest said:

“At NatWest, we’re committed to helping businesses grow sustainably while supporting the transition to a low carbon economy. This partnership with Green Economy brings together practical tools expert insight and support to help businesses across Greater Manchester take confident steps towards a low carbon economy.

“As a bank with a strong regional footprint, we understand the critical role local economies play in driving the UK’s growth. By working with partners like Green Economy, we can provide businesses with the support they need to manage energy costs today while investing in a more resilient, sustainable future.”

Amy House, Director of Green Economy said:

"It’s fantastic to be partnering with NatWest once again, and we’re proud to be building on this collaboration. By working closely with partners, we can reach more businesses, support their sustainable growth ambitions, and expand services that help accelerate decarbonisation both regionally and nationally."