Leicester businesses are to receive a significant boost to their digital and net zero ambitions, thanks to the launch of the new Accelerator project.
This project has received £215,000 from the Government through Leicester City Council’s allocation of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The project, which is delivered by East Midlands Chamber and runs until March 2025, is designed to help businesses across the city to sustain, grow and innovate, with an additional focus on decarbonisation.
There are two key strands to the project:
· Net Zero Accelerator: Events, training, consultancy and energy audits to help businesses gain green business skills, identify energy efficiency improvements and plan their journey towards carbon neutrality and net zero. Decarbonisation plan support will also be available, as well as the opportunity to access an online platform so businesses can showcase the real-time environmental impact of their efforts.
· Digital Accelerator: Workshops, specialist support and bespoke consultancy to help businesses enhance their digital use and/or implement new processes, with a specific focus on manufacturing businesses to support them to switch to advanced and automated technology.
Deputy city mayor for climate, economy and culture Councillor Adam Clarke said: “We have ambitious plans to help make Leicester a net zero and climate-ready city. We know that with the right support, we can welcome all kinds of local businesses on board and show them that becoming more energy efficient is good for business and for the city.
“This new Accelerator programme for local businesses will provide expert advice and support to help them grow while benefitting from energy-efficient, low-carbon improvements, and a focus on green business.”
East Midlands Chamber deputy chief executive Diane Beresford added: “The new Accelerator project builds on the success of the East Midlands Accelerator pilot project which, in 2022, supported 382 businesses and delivered 916 business support interactions across Leicester. The new project will allow us to extend that support to further develop the digital and net zero capabilities of businesses across the city.”
