How to Start a Green Business

If you’re thinking about starting a business, why not consider pursuing a green company founded on sustainable practices? With people caring more about the environment than ever, it can pay to have a company dedicated to environmentally sound practices. But where do you start? Evans Design Studio presents some useful advice below.

What Is a Sustainable Business?

A green or sustainable business is a company that sources its services and products through environmentally sound practices. It’s also dedicated to operating sustainably and doesn’t negatively impact the environment, community, or economy.

If you’re interested in creating a green business, you’ll need to establish best practices for sustainability when it comes to developing and manufacturing your products/services as well as marketing them to the public. You’ll want to consume as little energy as possible, use sustainable materials, and adhere to environmental laws and regulations.

Funding Your Sustainable Business

Creating a sustainable business may incur extra costs in the beginning, so it’s important to understand the help available to fund your business. In addition to seeking grants based on the eco-friendliness of your business, look into grants that are designed for specific groups of people, such as Black business owners. The following agencies provide loans and grants to sustainable businesses: 

Environmental Protection Agency Grants

If your business deals with air quality, environmental health issues, or clean diesel programs, you can apply for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grants. These are highly competitive with a rigorous qualification process. If you need help when applying, the EPA has helpful guides to assist you.

Department of Energy Loans and Grants

You can also pursue grants or loans with the U.S. Department of Energy. It offers several loan programs for businesses looking to address America’s energy, environmental, and nuclear challenges.

Small Business Administration Loans

U.S. Small Business Administration, also known as SBA loans, are made by lenders, such as a bank, but are guaranteed by the government. While the SBA doesn’t currently have a loan guarantee program specifically for sustainable businesses, it does guarantee loans for a wide variety of industries up to $5 million.

Marketing Your Green Business

Once you’ve secured funding for your company, it’s time to market your green business. With people more concerned than ever about saving the planet, it’s important to have a strong marketing strategy showcasing your green efforts to the public.

First, avoid greenwashing. Companies that pretend to be green risk a marketing nightmare, as consumers can be quick to denounce phony attempts at sustainability.

Now’s the time to use digital marketing. It reduces expenses and saves on potential waste from offline marketing materials. Social media is a great place to start, so use tools that show you how to quickly resize an image for Instagram. Think about creating a green logo and showcase your support for environmental organizations on the first page of your website. Dedicating your company to sustainable practices is no easy feat, so don’t be shy about broadcasting this achievement to the public.

Model Your Business on Success

It often pays to go green, so research the success stories and model your business practices after them. Patagonia is one of the most well-known sustainable businesses that donates 1% of sales to the conservation of the environment. Smaller companies, such as The Mercantile Co. based in Cumming, GA, have also dedicated themselves to sustainability.

Get Started Today

Think about the type of green business you’d like to create, and get started today. And remember to contact Evans Design Studio to design a website, market your products and services, and help your company succeed.