Empowering sustainable small businesses across South Carolina through accessible green lending and resources.

 

What is GreenPath SC?

GreenPath SC is an initiative of CLIMB Fund focused on supporting environmentally conscious small businesses. Whether you're launching a composting service, retrofitting your space with solar, or simply reducing waste—our Green Loans and sustainability tools are designed to help your business grow responsibly.

GreenPath SC graphic

Green Loan Features

Loan Amounts

Up to $50,000 for qualifying green projects

Low Interest Rates

Rates tailored to help you invest in sustainability

Flexible Use

Use funds for equipment, retrofits, certifications, or expansion

Program Benefits

  • Install clean energy generation (e.g. solar) or storage on commercial property
  • Retrofit to convert facility to LED lighting, improve insulation, etc.
  • Purchase new, more energy-efficient manufacturing equipment

  • Purchase electric delivery vehicles or EV charging stations
  • Replace outdated transportation equipment with electric models (e.g., electric forklifts or hand trucks)
  • Purchase new bikes, e-bikes, scooters for business delivery

  • Pay for sustainability certifications (e.g., B-Corp)
  • Conduct a carbon impact audit
  • Design and launch a green marketing campaign
  • Hire a sustainability consultant

  • Invest in more sustainable product packaging
  • Switch to a green manufacturer or supplier
  • Purchase items made from recycled material

  • Mitigate against wind, flood, and wildfire
  • Introduce nature-based solutions like rainwater harvesting or natural landscaping
  • Construct hydrogen fuel stations

Eligibility Criteria

- Business is located in South Carolina

- Declined from a traditional bank (bank declination communication)

- Commitment to implementing sustainable practices or projects

- Alignment with CLIMB Fund's mission to drive growth and opportunity in the state

Application Process

- Step-by-step guide to applying for a GreenPath SC loan

- Register for our bi-weekly application workshop

- Required documentation and information

Before You Apply | CLIMB Fund

Contact for assistance:
intake@climbfund.org
Allyssa: allyssa@climbfund.org

Success Stories

Showcasing Sustainable Businesses Making a Positive Impact

These businesses are committed to sustainability and making a difference in their communities.

 

Energy Efficiency

Understanding your business’s energy use can help reduce your emissions and save costs on energy bills. Tools like ENERGY STAR help determine your energy use patterns and set goals to lower emissions. Through energy efficiency improvements such as upgrades in building insulation, interior lighting, and HVAC systems, along with moving towards clean energy sources such as wind and solar power, you may be eligible for federal tax credits and can save on overall utility costs.

Energy Star

The ENERGY STAR Benchmarking Starter Kit lets you gather a free baseline energy report from which you can improve your energy efficiency.

Sustainability Resources for Small Businesses

Sustainability Resources


South Carolina Statewide Sustainable Resources


Sustainability Assessment

If you have any questions about how to decrease your business’s environmental impact or want to learn more about funding sustainable projects for your business, please contact Emily Fender at emily@climbfund.org.

Why Go Green?

Going green isn't just good for the planet—it’s good for your bottom line. Sustainable businesses can reduce costs, attract environmentally conscious customers, and qualify for exclusive funding opportunities like this one.

Let CLIMB Fund help you finance your next sustainable step. Start your application today or speak with one of our loan officers.

Apply Now