£2m grant scheme to help Bradford businesses cut vehicle costs and futureproof operations

Small businesses, charities and organisations across the Bradford District can now access new grant funding to help them switch to fully electric or other zero emission vehicles, as part of Bradford Council’s Clean Air programme.

Funded by Government, the new Zero Emission Grant Programme offers financial support of up to £16,000 for heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs) and £4,500 for light-duty vehicles (LDVs), helping organisations move away from petrol and diesel vehicles to cleaner, zero-emission alternatives.

The grant scheme, launched at the Scale Up Bradford event today, has been designed to reduce the upfront cost barrier that many smaller organisations face, making it easier to modernise vehicle fleets while improving efficiency and reducing ongoing expenses. With vehicle prices falling, fuel costs rising, and more affordable second-hand options becoming available, now is an ideal time for businesses to switch to a fully electric or other zero-emission vehicle.

Small and medium-sized businesses, sole traders and not-for-profit organisations are at the heart of Bradford’s local economy, this funding of £2m provides practical support to help them remain competitive while adapting to new vehicle technologies. By switching to electric or other zero emission vehicles, organisations can benefit from lower day-to-day running costs, as electricity is typically cheaper than petrol or diesel, as well as reduced maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts and less mechanical wear. Zero emission vehicles can also offer improved reliability, helping to minimise downtime and keep operations running smoothly.

By taking advantage of these grants organisations can futureproof their operations, preparing for changing regulations and reducing exposure to rising fuel costs. In addition, adopting modern, cleaner vehicle technology can enhance brand reputation, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and responsible business practices that increasingly matter to customers and clients.

The grants are designed to be flexible so that organisations can use the funding in ways that best suit their needs. Support can contribute towards a range of costs associated with switching to a zero-emission vehicle, including lease or finance payments, energy and charging costs, charging infrastructure, maintenance and licensing. This flexibility ensures that businesses can make the transition in a way that works for their individual circumstances.

The scheme is open to small and medium-sized enterprises, sole traders, charities, not-for-profit organisations, schools and educational establishments based in the Bradford District that have been operating prior to 20 October 2026. Funding is limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis, with a waiting list in place once funds have been fully committed. Organisations are encouraged to apply early and should note that replacement vehicles must not be purchased or leased until funding has been approved.

Cllr Andrew Judson, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Economy, Regeneration and Planning, said:

“We know that many small businesses want to move to cleaner vehicles but the upfront costs can be a real barrier. This funding is about giving local organisations practical support to make that change in a way that works for them.”

“Switching to electric or other zero-emission vehicles can help businesses reduce running costs, improve reliability and prepare for the future. We want to make sure Bradford businesses are supported to thrive while making the transition to a zero-emission vehicle.”

This programme forms part of Bradford Council’s wider work to improve air quality and support healthier communities, while ensuring that local organisations are supported through the transition to cleaner transport. By helping businesses invest in zero-emission vehicles, the scheme aims to deliver real economic and operational benefits, enabling organisations to reduce costs, improve efficiency and plan confidently for the future.

Businesses and organisations can find full details, eligibility criteria and information on how to apply on the Bradford Council website www.bradford.gov.uk/CAZhelp