June Business Newsletter

The third round of the Business Climate Action Grant has been launched by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.

Delivering against the ambitions set out in our Borough Climate Change Strategy, this scheme offers grants of up to £2,500 to assist businesses in their decarbonisation efforts.

The scheme is available to Tunbridge Wells businesses that are implementing new to business decarbonisation technologies and practices. 

Suitable projects include (but are not limited to): 

• Solar panel installation 
• Business electric vehicles 
• EV charging 
• LED installation 
• Insulation installation 
• Water saving measures 
• Net zero plan development 

This scheme closes for applications on the 12 June 2026. 

For more information on the scheme and how to apply, email sustainability@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or visit the TWBC Climate Action website.

On 14 May, guests gathered for a tour of the first phase of TN2 Gateway, located on the North Farm Estate, very close to the A21.

Delivered by Development Manager Scannell Properties, Royal London Asset Management Property’s TN2 Gateway is set to provide 500,000 ft² of class B8 and E(g) space. The first units are now ready for occupation, with flexible space at the park ranging from 23,503 to 175,222 ft². 

The development features photovoltaic roofing and carbon-neutral heating, supporting energy efficiency and cost savings. Extensive landscaping works are also well advanced.

Amplifi is hosting a fully funded, in-person Carbon Literacy Training session for Tunbridge Wells businesses to help reduce emissions and utility costs. 

Delivered by B Corp-certified experts at Grain Sustainability, this interactive training bypasses vague theory to provide practical operational frameworks. Participants will learn how to:

• Cut emissions by 5–15% through immediate, low-cost operational changes. 
• Formulate 2 concrete carbon-reduction action pledges. 

Through completion of the course, participants will secure a high-value, UN recognised, professional accreditation for their team. The training is taking place from 9:15am to 5pm on Wednesday 8 July, at Tunbridge Wells Town Hall, TN1 1RS. There are only 24 slots available for the training (maximum of 2 per business). 

To secure your place, send the names and email addresses of your attendees to jenny@yoyodesign.com.

This training is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Kent and Medway Growth Hub is hosting a free online course to develop early-stage businesses. The two-day course will provide the tools, knowledge and confidence to transform ideas into successful businesses. 

The course will cover: 

• Developing business ideas 
• Understanding customers and markets 
• Building a practical business plan 
• Exploring finance and funding options 
• Laying foundations for long-term success 

This course, designed for those starting out or who have recently launched businesses, is taking place online from 10am to 3pm on 8 and 9 July.

The Youth Jobs Grant is a new government scheme designed to support young people into sustained employment, while helping employers reduce recruitment costs. 

The Youth Jobs Grant offers incentives for employers to engage: 

• A £3,000 grant per eligible hire 
• Access to a pipeline of work-ready young people 
• Reduced recruitment costs while building a motivated workforce 

Employers may be eligible if they are ready to recruit an 18-24 year old who has been on Universal Credit for six months or more and is actively seeking employment. 

Employers can pre-register their interest now by completing an online enquiry form and selecting ‘Youth Jobs Grant’. When the scheme opens in June 2026 (exact date to be confirmed), the Youth Jobs Grant team will contact interested employers with application details. 

Employers can keep up to date on the Youth Jobs Grant and wider employer support at the link below.

Calling all Tunbridge Wells food producers, restaurants, markets and cafes - The Taste of Kent Awards are now open for voting and entries.

Any questions? 

Contact the Economic Development team at TWBC.

Email: business@tunbridgewells.gov.uk