Shell has opened applications for the Shell Springboard 2019 programme that awards £350,000 funding to support cutting-edge, low-carbon small and medium-sized enterprises in the UK.
The Springboard is seeking SMEs that reduce carbon emissions and are innovative and economically viable, Shell said.
For example, former winner bio-bean, which creates biofuels and biochemicals from coffee waste, is now selling in major retail outlets across the UK and has collaborated with Transport for London to power buses.
Applications for the latest competition will be accepted until 10am local time on 29 October. Interested SMEs are invited to apply online at www.shellspringboard.org.
Following independent screening, a technical assessment and telephone interviews, successful applicants will be shortlisted.
Companies shortlisted will meet the judging panels at regional events in February and March next year. At each event, three regional winners will be awarded funding of £40,000 each.
Shell UK country chair Sinead Lynch said: “If you’ve got a brilliant low-carbon innovation, we really want to hear from you.
“While we don’t have any equity in the businesses we support through Shell Springboard, we want to see them scale-up, attract private investors and play a part in shifting the UK to a low-carbon economy.”
Shell Springboard has run since 2005 and has provided over £4m to more than 100 low-carbon enterprises.