Funding small actors

Small actors (e.g., small enterprises, small cooperatives, family businesses) have often been overlooked or considered marginal contributors. However, evidence shows that their production methods and ways of meeting demand can significantly support a nature-positive future operating in just and safe spaces. Designing cross-sectoral policies that both support small actors and recognise their contributions may be a key intervention to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, steward nature, and enhance their well-being.

Get inspired by: Jičín city and the adoption of the Responsible Consumption Strategy at the municipal level

Jičín is a city located in the Hradec Králové Region. Since 2023, the city has been implementing the principles of environmentally and socially responsible public procurement, guided by the Sustainable Procurement Action Plan developed by the Ministry of Regional Development.

"Annually, the town of Jičín spends nearly CZK 17 million on food for its school facilities, setting a strong example of responsible public spending. 

In addition to awareness-raising and best practice sharing activities, this strategy ensures that four elementary schools and five kindergartens are continuously supplied with locally grown, seasonal, organic produce, while supporting small local and social enterprises.

Specifically, from January to May, the share of seasonal produce is 15–20%, and from June to December, it rises to up to 30%. Regarding support for local small enterprises, approximately 15–20% of the food supply is sourced from the region."

(Karlsson-Vinkhuyzen et al., 2024)