ERDF funds carbon knowledge transfer project

Funding grant

Environmental consultancy i10 has been awarded £192,000 by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) via the East of England Development Agency (EEDA) to set up a low carbon knowledge transfer project across the East of England.

The ERDF funding will enable i10 and its partners to improve the links between academic expertise and regional businesses wishing to develop commercially important low carbon technologies, reduce their carbon footprint or create a sustainable low carbon business strategy.

The money provides i10 with the wherewithal to launch a Low Carbon Vouche’ scheme, under which businesses in the region receive a £1,000 voucher to pay for two days’ low carbon consultancy with a university.

Ralph Ecclestone, Project Manager of i10, said, “Our aim is to connect businesses with the relevant universities. Together they will be able to develop effective solutions to help position our region as a leader in low carbon initiatives.”

David Morrall, Director of EEDA said the development agency is committed to creating the conditions where businesses can thrive in the low carbon economy. “It is not an option to ignore the challenges faced by climate change and the economic opportunities available in new markets are huge compared to the cost of mitigation. The East of England is well positioned to exploit the benefits of a worldwide shift to a lower carbon economy, with a vibrant business sector focused on environmental technologies. It is therefore vital that we invest in this competitive advantage.”

The voucher scheme is due to launch on Friday 19 September and from this date businesses can apply via the website, talk to an i10 Business Development Manager on 0845 234 2314 or via email.