IFB Partners from Middlesex University hosted the symposium, SME Green Horizons: Tackling Financing for Nature-Friendly Ventures, on 4th February.
It highlighted the potential of such ventures in as companies move towards greener practices and supply chains. Delegates considered how these initiatives can be cultivated and scaled and identified some of the challenges facing SMEs when they do so.
Key note presentations were given by -
- Dougal Fleming, Consultant at Green Business Team – Exploring SME Nature Positive
- David Ellis, Regulatory Consultant at W Legal – Cleantech innovation IP
- Olivia Sibony, Impact Amplified – Supporting SME green transition
- Gemma George, Green Business Action – Supporting London’s SME green transitions
- Dr Sylvia Gottschalk, Middlesex University – SME green debt finance provision in England
- Dr Eimear McGeown, University College Cork – Alternative Debt Finance in Republic of Ireland
- Dr Amy Burnett, Middlesex University – SMEs and Biodiversity Net Gain
The afternoon showcased how nature-positive SMEs and investors can - with the right support and resources to change the structures of our economy - work together for successful outcomes.