Advancing SME Sustainability: Insights from the TESSA Project in Collaboration with Opus Energy and GBB

As part of the TESSA project’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainability and green business transformation, and in collaboration with Opus Energy and the Green Business Benchmark (GBB), conducted a comprehensive capacity-building program for Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs). This initiative aimed to equip SMEs with the necessary skills and knowledge to foster a more sustainable business environment.

 Green Business Benchmark (GBB)

The purpose of Green Business Benchmark is to make sustainability reachable by anyone. They achieve this by providing sustainability software solutions that empower organizations to achieve faster, more meaningful impact for people and the planet. GBB’s involvement in the training program ensured that participating SMEs had access to cutting-edge tools and strategies to enhance their sustainability efforts.

 Training Overview

The program saw active participation from 51 SMEs across various sectors. These SMEs underwent an intensive training regimen designed to address their unique needs and challenges in the realm of sustainability. The training was structured into seven sessions, each crafted to cover essential aspects of green business practices.

  Program Structure and Content

1. Training Sessions: Over the course of the program, the SMEs attended seven training sessions. These sessions were interactive and provided a platform for the SMEs to engage with experts from Opus Energy and GBB, gaining insights into best practices sustainability.

2. Work Assignments: To ensure practical application of the training, each participating SME was tasked with 50 hours of work assignments. These assignments were tailored to the specific needs of the companies, allowing them to directly apply the knowledge gained from the sessions to their business operations.

3. Self-Assessment and Certification: The program culminated in a rigorous self-assessment process. SMEs were required to evaluate their progress and implementation of the training’s principles. Out of the 51 participating SMEs, 24 successfully completed the training and self-assessment, earning them completion certificates. Additionally, these SMEs received GBB certificates based on their grades, along with marketing collateral for their products or services. These certificates not only recognize their commitment to sustainability but also serve as a testament to their enhanced capacity in energy management.