Leo Rayman

What makes innovations work in Scotland? Impact, vision, community & ecosystem. Yesterday at the #makeyourinnovationswork podcast, I hosted Evelyn McDonald, CEO of the Scottish EDGE and a person of enormous energy who ignites the ideas of others. Key insight on how to nurture ideas within ecosystems, how social enterprises can fundraise for the sake of innovations and what makes Scotland a powerful growth spo with the UK. Social Entrepreneurship as a business model to innovate by design.  "I have to keep innovating as you do in any business because you need to keep innovating to keep your supporters engaged, to keep your stakeholders engaged, to keep people you know continuing to pay you to do what you do," says Evelen. She and her Team regularly walk in entrepreneurs' shoes when you need to adjust to the market on a regular basis and need to find a problem your customers willingly pay for. Innovate as you go. Since Scottish EDGE was launched more than 10 years ago, they have reinvented fundraising methods to keep their funding fund. Though it is the biggest business competition in the UK, crises and markets happen. Alumni pledges (1% of what they personally make on exit back to Scottish Edge), high net Scottish entrepreneurs support, sponsorship, etc., are used to secure Scottish EDGE work. Powerful community of alumni. One of the distinguishing features of the Scottish EDGE is that they support young and inexperienced entrepreneurs with 15000£ each per round. Once a part of Young EDGE, Amiqus has become the UK's leading compliance and onboarding platform, which is recommended for use by the UK government and is called "Fantastic Future Fifty 2024" by Tech Nation. It started from a spark. Running a business may be a lonely place to be. Though Teams, mentors, and partners are critical to demonstrating that your ideas mean something to others, the alumni community helps on the journey itself with information, advice, a network, and support. People are rushing from other countries to return to where their business came from. Impact matters. The last "Beyond the Return" report by Tech Nation, European Women in VC, and Founders Forum Group has shown - 88% of the VCs use an impact investing framework or tool to guide their investment decisions, with Western Europe being one of the most impact-oriented. Even more, founders are looking for impactful projects to work on, and it's pretty crucial for GenZ and younger generations to stand for some cause. The circular economy is one of the examples of how business models can become both scalable and impactful. So, there is room for another model as well. Impact helps to inspire critical stakeholders when you are an early-stage enterprise; it helps to spread the word and bring the right people on board. Feel free to come into round 24 with a 1.5 million pound prize pot starting the 14th of August. Make your #innovations work! #strategy #growth The link to the podcast is in comments

19

5 Comments

Labour wins UK General Election: What does it mean for businesses and sustainability? 🚨 Major policy shifts ahead, focusing on sustainability. Get ready for changes in energy and business landscapes. 🌱 Key initiatives include the "Warm Homes Plan" and massive investments in renewable energy—doubling onshore wind, tripling solar, and quadrupling offshore wind by 2030. 📈 Businesses, gear up! New regulations and opportunities in renewable energy and sustainable practices are coming. It's time to position for growth in a green economy. Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/eT427bEH

21

1 Comment

The results are in: the public backs policies to promote heat pumps, solar and wind power Research by the The Behavioural Insights Team, commissioned by Nesta involved focus groups and an online experiment with over 3,000 UK adults, looking at various possible policies that could contribute to reducing the UK’s carbon emissions. Some of the policies, such as the phase out of gas boilers, are already planned by the Government, while others, such as a meat reduction, are entirely speculative. ➡️ 9 in 10 people say they wouldn’t oppose the expansion of green infrastructure like wind and solar power ➡️ 7 in 10 are unopposed to phasing out boiler installations in favour of heat pumps and other eco-friendly systems by 2035, with calls to help more low-income households afford them ➡️ Frequent flyer levies, short-haul flight bans, expansion of Ultra Low Emission Zones into new cities, and a future ban on the sale of new combustion vehicles also all have majority support ➡️ Potential net-zero policies that might restrict individuals’ everyday lives, such as meat reduction policies, are less popular without adjustments to make them fairer The research underscores the importance of engaging with the public in the transition to net zero. When asked what would make them more accepting of net-zero policies in general, respondents prioritised transparency about costs and who will be affected (54%), evidence that the policy will be effective (51%), and measures to ensure no unfair burden (44%). Read more: https://lnkd.in/ea4dBw9X

30

Clean Energy by 2030 ⚡️ A national mission. But locally delivered. So, where do councils start? Here 👇 https://lnkd.in/eJu4wnUt

13

Taking #ESG commitments to new heights: Zip World UK's #BCorp journey. Featured in #Wales Insider Media this week, I discuss how our portfolio company Zip World achieved its recent B Corp certification and how we help the management teams we back to grow sustainably. Read article - https://lnkd.in/eWGcYJku #TrustedwithAmbition #ESGjourneys #privateequity #businessgrowth

43

People, Planet, Pint is coming around again - May 9th. The Mayoral election will be decided but what will that mean for climate change mitigation and adaptation in North Yorkshire? Come meet and discuss the: Environment & Energy: Transition to Carbon Negative – The transition to carbon negative is not just good for the environment, but can also support our businesses, people and communities:  Will the winner Monitor and measure the delivery of the Routemap to Carbon Negative. Will they Accelerate the drive to net-zero and a green, regenerative sustainable economy. Will they Implement The Circular Economy – Create a Waste Free Yorkshire! Will they support British leadership of a renewed clean industrial revolution is essential for economic revival and increased prosperity for British people. Will they have a visionary mission, with clarity of purpose and a clear target, well in advance of other developed economies, of net zero by 2030, which is also in line with the science. will they address the decline of nature in Britain must be switched to restoration immediately and our waterways protected from pollution. Looking forward to seeing you! https://lnkd.in/eF7D28qK

1

Scotland's ecosystem for nurturing tech start-ups continues to transform into a powerful support network, greater than the sum of its parts. The latest example is the new partnership between Scottish EDGE and TechScaler. By combining two of our most effective assets within Scotland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, we significantly increase the value that they bring to our start-ups. Alumni start-ups from Scottish EDGE can now access an ongoing development path within Techscaler, while Techscaler’s network of startup founding teams is strengthened further by dynamic businesses curated by EDGE.  https://lnkd.in/eZcM9RYR

170

13 Comments

What do green economy leaders want from the next UK government? Jen Emerton, head of business engagement at WRAP: “The next government has to create a level playing field so that circular products and services are competitive with linear, and that could be through tax incentives or other levers. At the moment, there is no way to compete. “And the other is EPR and just implementing it. Businesses are potentially holding off making decisions and investments regarding packaging and textiles until they understand what the future regulatory framework looks like, and that delay is causing the progress to slow down.” Alainah Amer, Katy Haigh and Rob Allen, sustainability team at Policy Connect: “With the climate at a tipping point, the new Government should focus on policy to deliver a carbon-neutral economy and a less wasteful society. Forthcoming legislation should help to build just, resilient, and thriving communities, and unlock the UK’s capabilities as a global leader in sustainability. “Among other things, a new Government should implement Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act and provide policy certainty to drive investment for net-zero in the first 100 days. “It should also commit to executing existing packaging reforms, first promised in 2018, to promote investment and green job creation.” edie https://lnkd.in/eEXK3C4u #Sustainability #ukgovernment #ukvotes2024 #waggingreens #greeneconomy #circulareconomy #netzero

5

🚀 Empowering the Future of UK Innovation with Record R&D Investment! 🚀 The UK government just announced an unprecedented £20.4 billion investment in research and development as part of the Autumn Budget! This marks the highest level of R&D funding ever, reflecting a strong commitment to driving economic growth through science and technology. 🌐💼 🔬 Key Highlights: 🔹Full funding for the UK’s association with Horizon Europe, giving our researchers access to the world’s largest collaborative R&D program, with over £80 billion for cutting-edge projects 🔹£520 million Life Sciences Fund to attract private investment, advance health resilience, and create high-quality jobs 🔹R&D Missions Programme with an initial £25 million to tackle key national challenges, from healthcare advancements to cleaner energy solutions 💡 Spotlight on #AI and #Innovation: AI is one of the high-growth sectors highlighted as crucial to UK economic opportunities. This funding not only bolsters AI research but also aligns with the UK’s broader mission to foster technological advancement, enhance productivity, and push towards net-zero goals. With AI-driven advancements in health, energy, and digital infrastructure, this investment is a powerful catalyst for a more innovative, resilient UK. 🇬🇧💻 💼 What This Means for UK Businesses: 🔹Increased AI and digital innovation: Funding will support AI integration across industries, boosting productivity and creating scalable solutions for modern challenges. 🔹Life Sciences Growth: Investments will unlock £1.8 billion in private funding, empowering breakthroughs in healthcare and strengthening the NHS. 🔹Support for Start-Ups: New funds, including a £40 million Proof of Concept Fund, will help translate university research into high-potential companies that fuel job creation. “Investing in science and technology is not just about economic growth; it’s about empowering researchers and businesses to solve real-world problems and build a brighter future.” – Peter Kyle, Secretary for Science and Technology With the Autumn Budget, the UK government is setting the stage for a future where innovation, particularly in AI and digital tech, powers growth across regions and sectors. It’s an exciting time for researchers, tech innovators, and the entire UK R&D ecosystem! 🎉 Read more here: https://lnkd.in/eP3QSaNw #Innovation #AI #AutumnBudget #UKScience #DigitalTransformation #TechInvestment #ResearchAndDevelopment #HorizonEurope #LifeSciences #FutureOfWork

5

Why do activists seem to target companies that are taking the biggest steps in sustainability? We field this question frequently and understanding the rationale of campaigning groups can be vital to meaningful engagement and change. Here's our MD Charlotte Moore explaining how activists select targets and what they hope to achieve with that choice. Check it out!

6

3 Comments

ADVERTISE ON RENEWABLE HEATING HUB Since our launch in March 2021, Renewable Heating Hub has rapidly become a leading resource for homeowners exploring heat pumps and renewable heating solutions in the UK. As we look ahead, we’re excited to offer targeted advertising opportunities for companies to connect directly with thousands of potential customers each month. Our platform is uniquely positioned to help you reach homeowners who are actively seeking information and solutions in the renewable heating space. Advertising Opportunities: • Banner Ads – Your banner (350x400) will be prominently displayed on our forums page and across the entire site, ensuring maximum visibility. A secondary banner (728x60) will also appear between forum posts, boosting your brand’s exposure. • Guest Posts – can we written by you or your team, or we can write them for you. A guest post on our site not only increases your online visibility and authority but also provides a lasting quality backlink to your website, enhancing your SEO. If you’re interested in these opportunities or have any questions, feel free to DM or email me: [email protected] Thank you for considering Renewable Heating Hub as a partner in promoting your brand. https://lnkd.in/d7vHDNF

2

NO CREDIBLE PLANS IN PLACE FOR 2/3RDS OF EMISSIONS. New CCC Progress Report 2024 makes bleak reading for our current pace of change across key areas. Here’s a summary of the summary: The UK has committed to reduce emissions in 2030 by 68% compared to 1990 levels, as its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the Paris Agreement. It is the first UK target set in line with Net Zero. Now only six years away, the country is not on track to hit this target despite a significant reduction in emissions in 2023. Our assessment is that only a third of the emissions reductions required to achieve the 2030 target are currently covered by credible plans. The UK should now be in a phase of rapid investment and delivery. Yet almost all our indicators for low-carbon technology roll-out are off track, with rates needing to significantly ramp up. Of particular concern to the Committee were changes to buildings policy, including exempting 20% of households from the phase-out of fossil-fuel boilers by 2035. These could seriously undermine the UK’s ability to reach its targets. By 2030: - Annual offshore wind installations must increase by at least three times, onshore wind installations will need to double and solar installations must increase by five times. - Approximately 10% of existing homes in the UK will need to be heated by a heat pump, compared to only approximately 1% today. - The market share of new electric cars needs to increase from 16.5% today to nearly 100%. https://lnkd.in/eSk4GhSm #netzero #climatechange #uktargets

24

What is #adaptiveintelligence and how does it relate to climate change, AI, and Africa? 🧐 Join us for this discussion with the African Futures Institute by registering below.

24

❓ 🤔 What are the social regulatory barriers stifling innovation and growth in the Foundation Industries? 🤔 ❓ Read our findings from across #FIVengage, our Regulatory Science and #Innovation Network funded by Innovate UK below and in full here https://lnkd.in/eeeQTSpM #FoundationIndustries #RegulatoryScience #RegulatoryBarriers

6

1 Comment

Must-Attend Training Opportunity: Biodiversity A second event for Yorkshire Sustainability Festival fringe - the Biodiversity Collage. Learn what’s behind the word “biodiversity” and why it matters. Remember that we humans may think we’re the main character, but we’re supported by a cast of plants and animals who make our existence possible. Let’s make sure we keep them around so that we can thrive. This workshop will help you get to grips with the role humans play in the grand game of nature, and understand why giving consideration to our impact on animal and plant life is an essential component of every sustainability strategy. Best of all, it’s free and hands-on. You’re gonna have fun while learning to be a planet custodian. Will I see you there ?

4

2 Comments

Today, BEAMA's Head of Net Zero and Clean Tech - Amy Collins, joined the Climate Policy Engagement Round Table - 'Aligning Associations with Climate Ambition' at London Climate Action Week! Hosted by the Climate Champions Team, this event brought together industry leaders to discuss the crucial role associations play in driving climate action. Amy was thrilled to be part of the conversation and share BEAMA's commitment to addressing the climate crisis. Let's keep pushing for a more sustainable future. #RoadtoNetZero #LondonClimateActionWeek #ClimatePolicy #AssociationsForClimateAction

11

1 Comment

Why should businesses integrate climate change into their strategy? Our factsheet highlights 5 key reasons, from mitigating financial risks to reducing your cost of capital and boosting brand awareness. Visit our website at www.simplifyclimate.co.uk to schedule a call with one of our consultants. #climatechange #sustainability #environment

4

Are there any public sector PMs, Service Designers or Delivery folks within my network? Keen to get a coffee ☕ Photo: the view from techUK conference earlier this week. Brilliant day with lots of insight from Government Digital Service, Ministry of Justice UK, Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and many more. #publicsector #productmanagement #servicedesign

26

6 Comments

🚀 Exciting News: Our Crowdfunder is Now LIVE! 🚀 At AnyWaste Global, we are on a mission to transform waste management for businesses across the UK. Our Crowdcube campaign is now live, and we invite you to join us on this journey towards creating a more sustainable and compliant waste system! ♻️ With upcoming regulatory changes in waste tracking, our platform will empower companies to: ✅ Ensure compliance with waste management regulations ✅ Reduce waste and carbon footprints ✅ Promote sustainability and circular economy practices 🌍 The global waste management industry is valued at over £1.3 trillion, and the UK is at the forefront of this change. Now is the time to invest in a future that’s cleaner, greener, and more efficient 💡 Join us and invest today: https://lnkd.in/eefedBCk #Sustainability #InvestInTheFuture #WasteCompliance #CircularEconomy #Crowdfunding #WasteManagement #TechForGood #Crowdcube #AnyWasteGlobal #InvestNow Let’s shape the future of waste management together! 🌱

4