About the Project
The ESGROWTH project
The ESGROWTH Project – Integrating ESG Strategies for Business Competitiveness and Sustainability in the Castilla y León – Northern Portugal cross-border area is a work program aimed at promoting the adoption of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria among SMEs, fostering a more sustainable and competitive business model.
These SMEs represent 99% of the business sector and 64% of employment, they face key challenges such as limited resources, insufficient training, and restricted access to financing, which hinder the effective implementation of ESG practices.
Common challenges
SMEs in Castilla y León and Northern Portugal face significant challenges when adopting Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles. Despite increasing regulatory pressure and growing awareness of sustainability, many companies still struggle to integrate ESG criteria into their business strategies.
Among the main common challenges that the ESGROW project seeks to address:
Low ESG Awareness
Many SMEs are not fully aware of the strategic benefits of ESG, making its integration into business management difficult.
Lack of Skills & Resources
Limited access to training, tools and specialised professionals hinders the effective implementation of ESG practices.
Financial & Strategic Barriers
Difficulties in accessing sustainable finance and integrating ESG into business strategies slow down the transition.
Approach and Impact
The project adopts a comprehensive and cross-border approach, regardless of the sector in which the
companies carry out their productive activities.Through a comprehensive and cross-border approach, the project provides companies with the tools, knowledge and support needed to overcome key barriers such as limited resources, lack of training and restricted access to financing.
By combining awareness, training, advisory services, development of methodological tools, access to funding and institutional strengthening, ESGROWTH promotes the adoption of sustainable practices, regulatory compliance and alignment with the European Green Deal.
Ultimately, the project seeks to generate a positive impact on the competitiveness, resilience and sustainability of the business ecosystem in the region.
Capacity Building
Providing SMEs with training, knowledge and tools to integrate ESG principles effectively.
Access to Resources
Facilitating access to funding, advisory services and methodological support.
Sustainable Impact
Enhancing competitiveness, resilience and alignment with the European Green Deal.