Small businesses in the UK with big ideas on tackling climate change have just over a month to put themselves forward for the chance to win a Shell Springboard award of up to £40,000.
The awards, which close for entry at 5pm on the 4th November 2011, recognise the role of small businesses in developing products or services which help combat climate change.
The programme has awarded £2 million to 53 innovative low-carbon businesses since its launch in 2005 and provides a springboard for many businesses, helping them to raise their profile in order to secure investment.
Graham van’t Hoff, Chairman of Shell UK, said: “Small businesses are currently developing an abundance of low-carbon technologies. Shell Springboard offers no-strings financial awards to these businesses to progress their ideas and help these technologies come to fruition."
Shell Springboard offers a financial boost for UK businesses with compelling ideas for tackling climate change. These must be ideas which:
- will lead to greenhouse gas reductions
- are commercially viable
- are innovative
£320,000 is on offer in awards of £20,000 or £40,000. Last year awards were made to 10 businesses from across the UK.
Previous winners
Cella Energy (2011) was awarded £40,000 for their innovative hydrogen storage technology, bringing the prospect of hydrogen fuelled cars one step closer to reality. Since winning, Cella Energy has made rapid progress attracting further investment and the company is now working with global strategic partners to develop their technology. The company valuation has increased almost ten-fold.
Naked Energy Ltd (2010), which has developed a solar panel which is able to generate both electricity and hot water in cool climates. Since winning, they have secured all of their seed capital investment and obtained a development agreement with Imperial College.
Shiply.com (2009) transports goods in empty lorries on their return legs. Since winning Shell Springboard, Shiply.com has expanded by 200%. It recently reached a milestone of saving more than 10 million unnecessary road miles.
Scottish Bioenergy (2009) uses algae to convert CO2 emissions into biodiesel. Since winning the award, the company has installed an algae treatment system at The Famous Grouse’s Glenturrett Distillery near Perth, in addition to establishing a number of partnerships within the whisky industry.
The deadline for 2011 entries is 4th November 2011. Full details and an online application form can be found at www.shellspringboard.org.
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