Who Qualifies for GBIS Support in the UK?

The Green Business Innovation Support (GBIS) programme is one of the UK government’s efforts to promote environmentally sustainable business practices. As the country takes firm steps toward achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, GBIS plays a critical role in assisting businesses to reduce their carbon footprint and become greener. But who exactly qualifies for this support? If you're a UK-based business owner or entrepreneur wondering whether your business is eligible, this guide will help clarify everything you need to know.

Understanding GBIS: A Brief Overview

Before diving into the eligibility criteria, it’s important to understand what GBIS is all about.

The GBIS is designed to support small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the UK in adopting greener technologies and practices. This support can come in various forms, including:

• Grants for energy efficiency improvements

• Expert consultancy on sustainability strategies

• Innovation funding for green product development

• Access to green technology and tools

• Workshops and training programmes to boost green skills

GBIS is part of a wider push by the UK government to help businesses grow while reducing their impact on the environment.

Why GBIS Matters

With rising energy costs and increasing pressure to meet environmental standards, many SMEs find it challenging to invest in sustainable changes. GBIS aims to bridge that gap by:

• Reducing upfront costs for sustainability investments

• Helping companies stay competitive

• Promoting long-term cost savings through energy efficiency

• Supporting the UK's climate targets

Now let’s explore the key question: Who qualifies for GBIS support?

1. UK-Based Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

One of the main qualifications for GBIS support is being a registered UK-based SME. To qualify as an SME under UK government standards, your business must meet the following criteria:

• Have fewer than 250 employees

• Have an annual turnover of less than £50 million

• Have a balance sheet total of less than £43 million

This definition includes micro, small, and medium-sized businesses. Large companies are typically not eligible for GBIS funding, as the programme specifically targets SMEs that may lack the resources to go green independently.

Exceptions

While most large enterprises are excluded, there may be rare instances where collaborations or joint ventures with SMEs qualify, especially if they contribute to green innovations that benefit smaller businesses.

2. Businesses Operating in Eligible Sectors

GBIS funding tends to prioritise certain sectors that are key to the UK’s environmental strategy or those with high energy consumption. Common sectors include:

• Manufacturing

• Food and Beverage

• Construction

• Retail and Wholesale

• Transportation and Logistics

• Hospitality and Tourism

• Agriculture and Farming

However, most sectors can apply as long as they demonstrate a clear plan to reduce environmental impact or implement greener practices.

Non-Eligible Sectors

Some sectors, such as arms manufacturing, gambling, and tobacco, are typically excluded due to ethical funding guidelines. Always check the specific funding round criteria to see if your sector is included.

3. A Commitment to Sustainability

GBIS isn’t just handing out free money — it’s an investment in a greener future. Therefore, applicants must demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability. This might include:

• A detailed carbon reduction plan

• An energy audit showing areas for improvement

• Previous efforts to reduce environmental impact

• Plans to switch to renewable energy sources

• Strategies for waste reduction and recycling

Even if your business is at the start of its green journey, showing a clear commitment and strategic plan increases your chances of qualifying.

4. Innovation-Focused Projects

If your business is working on green innovation, such as developing eco-friendly products, services, or technologies, GBIS may be an excellent fit. Innovation funding under GBIS supports:

• Product design and development with a sustainability focus

• Testing and prototyping green solutions

• Collaborations with universities or research centres on sustainability

• Creating low-carbon supply chains

Applicants need to show how their innovation will have a measurable positive environmental impact, and ideally, commercial potential.

5. Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Businesses aiming to make energy-efficient upgrades often qualify for GBIS funding or consultancy. This may include:

• Installing LED lighting, smart meters, or heat pumps

• Retrofitting buildings with better insulation

• Replacing outdated equipment with energy-efficient alternatives

• Investing in renewable energy systems, such as solar or wind

• Electrification of fleet vehicles

Even basic upgrades that lead to reduced carbon emissions can make your business a strong candidate for GBIS.

6. Location-Based Eligibility

Some GBIS programmes are region-specific, especially those delivered through local councils or enterprise partnerships. For instance, a GBIS initiative in Greater Manchester may differ from one in the South East or Scotland.

Check if your local authority or Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) is participating in GBIS or has its own green business support initiatives aligned with GBIS goals.

7. Business Maturity and Financial Health

While startups are often encouraged to apply, certain types of GBIS support (especially grants) may require businesses to:

• Have been trading for a minimum period (e.g., 6-12 months)

• Be in good financial health (e.g., no significant outstanding tax liabilities)

• Provide recent financial statements or tax returns

This helps ensure the business can sustain operations during and after the supported project.

8. Willingness to Participate in Monitoring and Reporting

All GBIS support comes with the expectation that recipients will:

• Track and report on the outcomes of their funded projects

• Share data related to energy usage or carbon reductions

• Allow site visits or audits (if required)

Transparency and accountability are key to maintaining the programme’s integrity and proving its impact.

9. Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing

While not mandatory, some GBIS programmes favour applicants who are willing to collaborate with others — whether that’s suppliers, customers, industry groups, or universities. The aim is to:

• Spread innovation more widely

• Build sustainable supply chains

• Encourage green knowledge transfer

If your business is open to sharing learnings or working on joint sustainability projects, this could strengthen your application.

Tips to Maximise Your Chances of GBIS Approval

Here are a few helpful suggestions if you're planning to apply for GBIS:

1. Get an energy audit – this is often the first step in understanding your needs.

2. Develop a sustainability plan – even a basic roadmap can go a long way.

3. Document your current carbon footprint – measurable data helps prove your case.

4. Engage your local council or LEP – they often provide support with GBIS applications.

5. Consult with a green business advisor – many regions offer free consultancy sessions.

6. Be transparent and realistic – show how GBIS support will genuinely help your goals.

Final Thoughts

As the UK continues to lead the charge toward a sustainable future, programmes like GBIS are essential in bringing small and medium-sized enterprises along on the journey. Whether you're looking to upgrade your equipment, cut down on energy usage, or launch a new green product, GBIS Grant  could provide the push you need.

To qualify, businesses must be UK-based SMEs with a focus on sustainability, operating in eligible sectors, and committed to innovation and long-term environmental responsibility. With the right planning, documentation, and intent, GBIS can be a valuable ally in helping your business thrive while protecting the planet.