Unlocking Business Growth
For Irish small businesses, securing affordable finance can often be the difference between standing still and growing. Whether a business is looking to invest in energy-efficient upgrades, expand operations, or simply strengthen its sustainability credentials, accessing the right funding is crucial. That’s where the Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme, offered by the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI), comes in to support businesses’ ambitions.
What is the SBCI Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme
The Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme is a low-cost, long-term loan facility designed to help businesses across Ireland that want to reduce their carbon footprint, improve energy efficiency, or adopt greener technologies, all while keeping a sharp focus on future growth. It is supported by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and benefits from a guarantee provided by the European Investment Bank Group.
The scheme is available through AIB, Bank of Ireland, Close Brothers, Finance Ireland, and PTSB.
Key Features and Benefits
What makes this scheme stand out is not just its flexibility, but also its ability to make finance more affordable and accessible. Here are the key benefits:
- Loan amounts to suit different needs. Loans range from €25,000 to €3 million, allowing businesses of all sizes to apply, whether they need smaller capital for equipment upgrades or larger investment for green innovation.
- Longer repayment terms. Loans can be repaid over 7 to 10 years, giving businesses the breathing space to invest in sustainability and growth without the pressure of short-term repayments.
- Attractive interest rates. Businesses can benefit from more competitive rates than might otherwise be available through standard commercial loans.
- Supports a wide range of activities. The scheme covers a broad spectrum of investments, including:
- Sustainability projects such as solar panels, energy-efficient equipment, waste reduction systems, and more.
- Growth investments including expansion, upgrading facilities, purchasing new machinery and other capital investment needs.
- No requirement for personal guarantees for loans up to €500,000.
Who Can Apply
The Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme is open to a wide range of businesses across sectors, including:
- SMEs and Mid-Caps (businesses with up to 499 employees).
- Primary producers such as farmers, foresters, and fishers.
- Businesses looking to finance sustainability initiatives.
- Businesses with plans for growth investment projects.
Why Sustainability Makes Good Business Sense
For Irish businesses, sustainability has become a competitive advantage. Customers and supply chain partners are increasingly demanding greener credentials. Whether it’s reducing energy costs through more efficient technology, cutting down on waste, or introducing renewable energy sources, businesses that embrace sustainability future-proof themselves against rising energy prices and evolving market expectations.
By leveraging the Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme, businesses not only access affordable finance, but also take a critical step toward meeting environmental goals while enhancing their brand reputation and bottom line.
How to Apply
- Step One – Businesses must first submit an on-line Eligibility Form on the SBCI Hub. If approved, the business receives an SBCI Eligibility Code.
- Step Two – Contact a participating finance provider, provide the SBCI Eligibility Code, and apply for a GSLS loan.
Take the First Step Today
Don’t miss the chance to future-proof your business while securing the finance needed to grow and thrive. Visit the SBCI website to know more: www.sbci.gov.ie