Sustainable Business Network

What Sustainable Business Network does

Sustainable Business Network (SBN) is an Ireland-based membership organization launched on 19 November 2025 to support businesses across all sectors in embedding sustainability practices. It operates from Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, with a core team of seven and is led by Managing Director Rob Rankin, who also founded the sister entity Sustainable Tourism Network (STN, formerly Sustainable Travel Ireland, operating since 2003). SBN is positioned as the cross-sector counterpart to STN's tourism remit, extending sustainability support, training, and certification pathways into retail, hospitality, manufacturing, and services.

SBN's core products include (i) a tiered membership programme priced €290 to €1,800 ex VAT annually, (ii) the Be Ready! B Corp certification preparation programme aligned with the incoming 2026 B Corp standards, (iii) more than 20 structured training programmes mapped to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and (iv) bespoke sustainability consulting engagements. A Sustainable Business Finder directory serves as a public discovery layer for vetted member businesses. Strategic partnerships with B Lab, GSTC, Origin Green, and other certification bodies underpin the credibility and content depth of the offering.

The business model combines recurring membership fees, project-based consulting revenue, and training delivery, monetized primarily through community-led channels: an annual conference, regional roadshows, partner events, and direct outreach. SBN is founder-owned with no external funding disclosed. Customer mix spans small and mid-sized Irish enterprises alongside larger venue and retail operators, with case-study logos used as proof points rather than as anchors of revenue concentration.

Name

Sustainable Business Network

Legal name

Sustainable Business Network

Website

https://sustainablebusinessnetwork.ie

Company type

Private

Founded year

2025

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1–10 employees

Short description

Sustainable Business Network is an Ireland-based membership organization launched in November 2025 that delivers sustainability training, consulting, and B Corp certification preparation to Irish businesses across all sectors, operating as the sister company to the Sustainable Tourism Network.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Sustainability Consulting Services

NAICS

Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations (813), Environment, Conservation and Wildlife Organizations (813312)

SIC

Services-Membership Organizations (8600)

akta.pro primary industry

Eco-Certification, Auditing & Standards (Green Lodging, Tour Operator Certification) (THAAANAA)

akta.pro secondary industries

Sustainability & Carbon Management for Business Travel (THACAMAJ), Sustainable Supply Chain & Procurement Platforms (Local Sourcing, Ethical Purchasing) (THAAANAJ), Fair Trade & Ethical Supply Chains (Certification, Traceability, Producer Support) (BPAGALAL)

Keywords

• Sustainability consulting services
• B Corp certification support
• Sustainability training programmes
• Corporate sustainability membership
• Environmental advisory services

Headquarters

HQ city

Newtown Mount Kennedy

HQ country

Ireland

HQ region

Europe

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Marketing or Sales, Operations, Technology or R&D, Others

Revenue model

1. Membership Fees: SBN generates revenue primarily through annual membership fees, which range from €290 to €1,800 ex VAT depending on business size. Membership provides access to training programmes, sustainability templates, support, guidance, member-to-member discounts, and the Sustainable Business Finder. Fees are paid annually.
2. Consulting Services: SBN offers comprehensive sustainability consultancy services delivered by expert consultants either online or in person. Services include sustainability strategy, environmental management, responsible practices, stakeholder engagement, impact measurement, and sustainability policy development. These are sold directly to both members and non-members at tailored rates.
3. Training Programmes: SBN delivers structured sustainability training programmes including online and in-person sessions on topics such as carbon management, energy, waste, water, governance, biodiversity, sustainable events, and certification preparation. Members receive discounted rates; non-members can also access training tailor-made to their needs.
4. Be Ready! Sustainability Certification Programme: A paid certification preparation programme guiding businesses through the B Corp certification process. Available to members at a discounted rate and to non-members at standard rates. Includes one-to-one mentoring sessions, plain-language guidance, follow-up support, and a certificate of completion. Typically runs 6–12 months.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels3 records

Marketing channels7 records

Core offering

Sustainable Business Network is an Irish membership-based organisation that helps businesses become more sustainable through annual membership, structured training programmes, bespoke consulting, and B Corp / GSTC / CSRD / EU Green Claims Directive certification preparation. It operates a curated peer network of verified sustainability-committed member businesses, supports them with one-to-one mentoring and a Sustainable Business Finder directory, and runs the annual Inspiring Sustainable Tourism Conference and regional networking events.

Product overview

Sustainable Business Network offers a suite of interconnected sustainability services for businesses: the Be Ready! Sustainability Programme provides structured B Corp certification support, while the Suite of Training Programmes delivers curated courses across sustainability topics from governance to biodiversity. Consulting Services offer tailored advisory support, and The Sustainable Business Finder provides a directory for connecting with sustainable business members. The organization also delivers Regional Networking Events and the annual Inspiring Sustainable Tourism Conference for community building and knowledge sharing. Membership benefits include the Sustainability Starter Pack and Custom Training options. Together, these services form a comprehensive ecosystem supporting businesses at all stages of their sustainability journey.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• Be Ready! Sustainability Programme: A comprehensive 2-tier start-to-finish package designed to guide businesses through the B Corp certification process, typically running over six to 12 months.
• The Sustainable Business Finder

Products and services

• SBN Membership Annual subscription membership open to Irish and international businesses of all sizes and sectors, providing access to training programmes, sustainability templates, the Sustainable Business Finder, member-to-member discounts, events, and advisory support. Members must publish a sustainability policy within one year of joining.
• Be Ready! Sustainability Programme A complete 2-tier start-to-finish package guiding businesses through the B Corp certification process over 6-12 months. Covers Foundation Requirements and the 7 new Impact Topics in the B Impact Assessment (Purpose & Stakeholder Governance, Fair Work, JEDI, Human Rights, Climate Action, Environmental Stewardship & Circularity, Government Affairs & Collective Action). Delivered through one-to-one mentoring sessions with follow-up support. Available to members at a discounted rate and to non-members at standard rates; participants receive a certificate of completion.
• Suite of Training Programmes A curated set of structured sustainability training courses covering themes including Introduction to Sustainability, Sustainability Policy, Action Plan, Responsible Marketing, Sustainability Communications, Governance (CSRD, EU Green Claims Directive), Supplier Encouragement, Energy, Waste, Food Waste, Water, Carbon, Outdoor Workshops, Biodiversity & Nature, Culture & Heritage, Local Community, Sustainable Events, Operational/Certification Training, Accessibility & Inclusivity, People & Business, Digital Upskilling, and AI Ethics. Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
• Consulting Services Comprehensive sustainability consultancy delivered by expert consultants either online or in person, covering sustainability strategy, environmental management, responsible practices, stakeholder engagement, impact measurement, and sustainability policy development. Sold directly with members receiving discounted rates.
• The Sustainable Business Finder A web-based directory and enquiry routing service that connects prospective customers with verified SBN member businesses by type and location, allowing users to request multiple quotes in a single submission.
• Custom Training Tailored training on topics including sustainable business masterclasses, energy and carbon, water and waste, sustainable event management, sustainability policy building, biodiversity, and culture and heritage. Designed and delivered to meet specific business or industry needs.
• Regional Networking Events In-person sustainability networking events held across different regions in Ireland (including Munster, Wicklow, Dublin, Kerry), featuring panel discussions, speaker presentations, sustainability tours, and member spotlights. Free for members; non-members can attend their first event free.
• Inspiring Sustainable Tourism Conference Annual flagship conference bringing together international and Irish sustainability leaders for a day of practical advice, inspiration, and peer networking. Open to both members and non-members.

Quantifiable outcome

• Businesses achieve B Corp certification with expert guidance through the Be Ready! programme (6–12 months)
• +4 more outcomes

Named customers23 records

Segments5 records

Ideal customer profiles5 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature4 records

Partnerships

13 partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• Sustainable Tourism Network (STN)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerSTN (formerly Sustainable Travel Ireland) is SBN's sister company. Both companies share founding ownership (Rob Rankin), team resources, and a joint mission to promote sustainability across Irish industries. STN focuses specifically on the tourism sector while SBN serves all business sectors. The two organisations co-host the annual Inspiring Sustainable Tourism Conference and share regional networking events and training content.
• B Lab (B Corp Certification Body)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerSBN is an authorised programme provider guiding businesses through the B Corp certification process via its Be Ready! programme. B Lab is the non-profit governing body that awards B Corp certification. SBN's programme is specifically designed around B Lab's new Impact Assessment framework (7 Impact Topics, Foundation Requirements) launching in 2026.
• Bord Bia – Origin GreencoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerSBN helps members engage with Origin Green — Bord Bia's sustainable sourcing programme. Portmagee Whiskey is cited as an Origin Green member (annually since 2018). Origin Green provides a framework for verified sustainable practice that SBN uses as part of its certification support.
• Failte Ireland Climate Action ProgrammeminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerPortmagee Whiskey is a member of the Failte Ireland Climate Action Programme. SBN supports members in preparing for and participating in this national tourism sustainability programme.
• Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerGSTC is the international body that sets criteria for sustainable tourism. Multiple SBN team members (including Lauren Keogh, Aoibheann Boyle, and Ciara Quinn) have completed the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Programme. SBN's training content and certification support align with GSTC standards. Slieve Elva B&B holds gold certification recognised under GSTC criteria.
• Business for NatureminorGTM or Marketing PartnerSBN participates in and promotes Business for Nature initiatives. SBN highlighted Business for Nature during Biodiversity Week, showcasing how its members are contributing to nature protection and biodiversity.
• All-Ireland Pollinator PlanminorGTM or Marketing PartnerSBN is a recognised business supporter of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan 2026–2030, administered by the National Biodiversity Data Centre. Multiple SBN member businesses (Dundrum Town Centre, Poppies Café, Guinness Storehouse) participate in the plan, with pollinator gardens and habitat initiatives.
• Green Ocean FoundationminorGTM or Marketing PartnerWatermark Coffee (SBN member) partners with Green Ocean Foundation, a charity focused on nature restoration and ocean recovery in Ireland. Watermark Coffee's Green Ocean Coffee blend directly funds the foundation's marine ecosystem restoration work.
• HometreeminorGTM or Marketing PartnerAoibheann Boyle (SBN Marketing & Events Executive) is a frequent volunteer with Hometree, an Irish native woodland charity. SBN supports Hometree through employee volunteering and community engagement.
• Powerscourt EstatecoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorPowerscourt Estate is a founding member venue and host of SBN's official launch event (November 2025). The venue partnership provides SBN with a prestigious launch location while promoting Powerscourt's sustainability credentials. Powerscourt Estate is listed in SBN's member directory and promotes the network to its visitors.
• Climate Connected Project (represented by Lúgh Ó Braonáin, Energy Co-operatives Ireland)minorGTM or Marketing PartnerThe Climate Connected Project (supported by DECC and Pobal, developed with University of Galway, regional climate offices, and community groups) is represented by Lúgh Ó Braonáin at SBN events. The project supports communities in tangible climate action through free online toolkits and resources.
• Leave No TraceminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerMultiple SBN team members (Aoibheann Boyle, Edwina Horgan) are accredited Leave No Trace trainers. SBN incorporates Leave No Trace principles into its training programmes for outdoor workshops and sustainable events, and Vagabond Tours practices Leave No Trace on all tours.
• The Burren Ecotourism NetworkminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerGregans Castle Hotel (SBN member) is a founding member of The Burren Ecotourism Network. SBN's training and certification framework aligns with and supports Burren Ecotourism Network principles.

Scale indicators3 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Others

• ISEAL Alliance: Global membership alliance for sustainability standards organisations; relevant ecosystem peer given SBN's positioning around B Corp, GSTC, and other standards frameworks.

Direct peers

• Origin Green (Bord Bia): Ireland's national sustainability certification programme for food and drink producers; the closest country-comparable peer operating a membership-plus-certification model across Irish businesses.
• Green Tourism: UK-based sustainable tourism certification and membership network with a similar member-directory-plus-green-certification offering for hospitality businesses; the most directly comparable operator in the neighbouring geography.
• Sustainable Tourism Network (STN): Sister company under the same founder (Rob Rankin) with overlapping leadership, events, and training infrastructure; provides the closest comparable operating model and the de facto template SBN was spun out from.
• Green Key: International eco-certification programme for hotels and hospitality venues recognised by GSTC; competes for the same tourism-vertical certification budget that SBN addresses through GSTC-aligned training.
• Travelife: Global sustainability certification and training system for hotels and tour operators; overlaps with SBN's tourism-vertical training and certification support, particularly for GSTC-aligned criteria.

Broad incumbents

• ClimatePartner: International climate-action and sustainability consultancy offering carbon management, training, and certification services to SMBs and enterprises; competes for the same carbon/CSRD consulting wallet.
• EcoVadis: Global sustainability ratings platform used by large enterprises for supply-chain assessments; represents the scaled, technology-led alternative to boutique advisory that could displace SBN's enterprise-tier consulting.
• B Lab: Global non-profit governing body for B Corp certification; SBN is an authorised programme provider under B Lab, and B Lab's own education and tools are the structural incumbent against which SBN's Be Ready! programme competes.

Emerging players

• Future Fit Foundation: Non-profit providing sustainability training, tools and certification aligned with the UN SDGs; comparable content-and-training model targeting business audiences.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat4 records

Key risks7 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/sustainablebusinessnetwork
• Instagraminstagram.com/sustainablebusinessnetwork

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles7 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Sustainable Business Network