The Energy Training Academy (ETA) is a community interest company that specialises in providing high-quality training and education in the gas and renewables industry. ETA works with young people, veterans, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds to ensure they gain valuable skills for the green energy transition.
Challenge
Heating company entrepreneurs Mark Glasgow and Andrew Lamond had first hand experience of the shortage of skilled heating engineers – as well as early insight into the growing need for skilled renewable energy engineers – and decided to set up The Energy Training Academy (ETA) as a social enterprise that would help to achieve a positive outcomes for planet and people. ETA secured funding to make a start on their state-of-the-art training facility but needed investment to continue the refurbishment and support working capital.
Solution
They were too early in their journey for traditional loans but the patience and flexibility of a revenue-based loan from the Catalyst Fund suited their needs as repayments are based on trading revenue earned, rather than a fixed monthly amount.
Revenue Model
ETA delivers training courses in gas, electrical and renewable engineering for individuals and employers.
Impact of social investment
The investment has enabled ETA to;
- continue with the refurbishment of their training facility to a high standard including a unique ‘Net Zero home’ renewable energy showcase
- start delivering training and build up their reputation as a high quality training provider
- engage with schools and local authorities to engage with young people and those excluded from the workforce
Testimonials
“We are delighted that The Energy Training Academy has been awarded significant funding from the Catalyst Fund. This marks an important milestone in our journey towards creating a community-focused energy training facility. The funding will help us achieve our ambitious goal of enhancing skills and employment opportunities in South East Scotland while simultaneously helping our community work towards a greener future by embracing the net-zero transition. With this support, we are poised to make a real and lasting impact, and we are excited to embark on this exciting journey with the backing of Firstport.”
Andrew Lamond, Director at Energy Training Academy
“We’re excited to back experienced entrepreneurs like Andrew and Mark, who are choosing social entrepreneurship as a way to make an impact. They’ve assembled a fantastic team and have a brilliant market opportunity in front of them. With this investment, the Energy Training Academy will be able to roll out their training programmes, making a huge impact on people’s lives and the decarbonisation challenge.”
Daisy Ford-Downes, Head of Group Investment Programmes at Firstport
Find out more about quasi-equity here.