SMEs (Small & medium sized enterprises)

SMEs represent a large contribution to the UK economy and may be more vulnerable to the climate risk than larger, better resourced companies.

It is unlikely to be appropriate for an SME to engage with a complex, time-consuming process of developing an adaptation plan as a standalone activity. Therefore, information and support to SMEs needs to be tailored, relevant, concise and deliver clear and certain benefits in the short term. SMEs are often particularly interested in the opportunities that climate change may present.

UKCIP aims to help  the existing business support community to deliver appropriate advice and support to SMEs on dealing with weather and climate. CLARA (Climate Adaptation Resource for Advisors) is a web-based resource aimed at both grant-funded and commercial business advice providers who are interested in developing their services in the area of adaptation. In includes advice on making the business case and providing support as will as links to publications, projects and other useful resources relating to adaptation and SMEs.

Also see the SMEs section under Business case studies.