Basin businesses now have a new resource to draw on when it comes to addressing climate change. Just launched from Columbia Basin Trust, the Business SMART Grants help small- and medium-sized businesses reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare for and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

“Local governments, non-profits and First Nations have shown great success in becoming more climate resilient and energy-friendly with Trust support, from reducing the risks of wildfires to generating alternative energy at community-purpose buildings to making affordable rental housing more energy efficient,” said Johnny Strilaeff, President and Chief Executive Officer, Columbia Basin Trust. “In our drive to address both climate resilience and business renewal, we’re pleased to introduce this program that will help businesses realize important projects so that they, too, can face the future responsibly and with confidence.”

SMART stands for “sustainable mitigation, adaptation and resilience transition.” Businesses in a range of sectors—including agriculture, retail and manufacturing, with two to 50 employees and annual revenues of at least $75,000—can access the grants to enhance or transform operations or infrastructure. Projects must reduce greenhouse gases, help the business adapt or become more resilient to the effects of a changing climate, or make it more energy efficient.

The program deadline is January 18, 2023, but interested businesses are encouraged to get in touch as early as possible (at least six weeks before the deadline) to obtain the support of an advisor. Up to 50 per cent of project costs can be covered, to total Trust funding of $100,000. Contact businessSMART@ourtrust.org or 1.800.505.8998 or learn more at ourtrust.org/bsmart.

Columbia Basin Trust supports the ideas and efforts of the people in the Columbia Basin. To learn more about the Trust’s programs and initiatives, and how it helps deliver social, economic and environmental benefits to the Basin, visit ourtrust.org or call 1.800.505.8998.