SBEN | Networking, Funding & advice

Are you a business based in Staffordshire looking to boost performance, cut energy costs, and improve your environmental credentials? The Staffordshire Business & Environment Network (SBEN) has a suite of services and support specifically designed to help you do just that.

What SBEN Does

SBEN is a membership organisation (free to join for many businesses) focused on supporting companies in Staffordshire with sustainability & environmental performance. sustainabilitywestmidlands.org.uk+2sben.co.uk+2
Their mission: “to support organisations to achieve long-term sustainability and maximise their business opportunities through innovative environmental activity.” Carbon Copy+1

Some of the key ways SBEN helps include:

• Networking, training & knowledge-sharing – SBEN runs seminars, workshops and events to help businesses understand environmental regulations, policy developments, and best practice. sustainabilitywestmidlands.org.uk+1

• Practical tools & support – From online tools such as the “Carbon Tracker” (for measuring business carbon emissions) to advice on implementing energy efficient measures. sben.co.uk+1

• Access to funding & grants – SBEN helps businesses access funded programmes including free energy assessments, low-carbon grants, and interest-free loans. sben.co.uk+2sben.co.uk+2

Key Services & Support You Can Access

Here’s a breakdown of some of the standout services SBEN offers:

Free Energy Assessments & Low-Carbon Grants

• Under SBEN’s “Green Solutions” programme (via the Business Energy Advice Service (BEAS)), eligible SMEs in Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent can get a free energy assessment, followed by the opportunity to apply for a grant of between £1,000 and £100,000 (covering up to 50% of eligible costs). sben.co.uk+2sben.co.uk+2

• Examples of eligible measures: LED lighting upgrades, heating and boiler replacement, insulation, solar PV and batteries, refrigeration system upgrades, controls, etc. sben.co.uk+1

• Note: The grant is match-funded; your business must meet eligibility criteria (e.g., trading for 12 months, using commercial premises, fewer than 250 employees, etc). sben.co.uk+1

Green Loan Scheme

• SBEN also offers a Green Loan for businesses that have had or are undergoing an energy assessment. Key features:

  • 100% upfront funding for eligible measures.

  • Interest-free.

  • Loans from £5,000 up to £200,000. sben.co.uk+1

• This is ideal if you want to invest in upgrades now and spread the cost.

Carbon Literacy Training

• SBEN offers free places (typically 2 per business) on an 8-hour Carbon Literacy-accredited training course. These help staff and management understand climate change, carbon emissions, and practical steps to act. sben.co.uk+1

• Options for in-person, online or e-learning format.

Carbon Tracker Tool

• SBEN’s “Carbon Tracker” is a free online tool for eligible member organisations to measure and monitor their carbon emissions year-on-year (covering energy use, travel, water, etc). sben.co.uk+1

• It helps you set targets, report progress, and demonstrate action to your stakeholders.

Membership Benefits

• Joining SBEN gives you access to:

  • Networking and peer learning.

  • Subsidised or free training and tools.

  • Access to grant and loan schemes via SBEN.

  • Regular updates and resources on environmental policy and business support. sustainabilitywestmidlands.org.uk+1

• Membership is free for many businesses (until March 2024 was noted) — check the current offer. staffordshire.gov.uk

Why Engage with SBEN?

Here are some of the benefits to your business:

• Cost savings – Energy assessments and subsequent investments often reduce bills and improve efficiency, increasing competitiveness. sben.co.uk+1

• Future-proofing – With increasing expectations around carbon footprint, supply-chain sustainability and regulatory pressures, SBEN’s support helps you stay ahead. climateexpo.org.uk

• Access to funding – Many businesses struggle to find grants or loans; SBEN links to programmes where support is already available.

• Reputation & ESG – Demonstrating that you’ve measured your carbon emissions, trained staff, and taken action can enhance your credibility with clients, investors, and partners.

• Peer support & learning – The network gives access to other businesses in Staffordshire, sharing experiences and ideas.

• Local presence – Being focused on Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent means the support is geographically relevant for you if you operate in this area.

How to Get Started

1. Check eligibility – Confirm your business meets basic criteria (office/commercial premises, minimum energy usage / trading history, location). sben.co.uk+1

2. Join SBEN – Visit the SBEN website and register as a member. (Free or low cost).

3. Book in an energy assessment or training – Use SBEN’s “Green Solutions” or BEAS pathways to apply for an assessment.

4. Consider upgrade options & funding – Use the assessment to identify cost-saving and carbon-reducing measures; then apply for low-carbon grants or Green Loan if required.

5. Use tools like Carbon Tracker – Start measuring your carbon baseline and track progress.

6. Engage with the network – Attend SBEN events, workshops, and use the member directory to connect with others.

Final Thoughts

For any business in Staffordshire looking to reduce energy costs, improve sustainability, and access support for low-carbon investment, SBEN offers a compelling and locally-tailored resource. Whether you’re just starting your environmental journey or looking to accelerate your net-zero roadmap, this network provides practical tools, funding pathways, and peer-networking to help you succeed.

Find out more: Home – Staffordshire Business & Environment Network