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"As we move into the next Grey Matters Cohort, our objective is to fundamentally support the change in how north-east energy works. We are pioneering homegrown talent, diversifying the sector to develop new solutions which will support the industry’s – and Scotland’s, economic recovery."

John Harris Energy Director

At the centre of Scotland’s entrepreneurship ecosystem, Elevator has grown through the successful creation of favourable environments for business start-ups.

Grey Matters, our company creation programme, is delivered in an information-rich environment; one which brings together industry experts, thought-leaders and specialists with the knowledge that can be shared to open the minds of our participants.   

Energy Director, John Harris, speaks about the evolution of our programme and Elevator's aims to support Scotland’s economic recovery across a variety of sectors. 

"Since its inception we have been nurturing the creation of new and exciting energy focussed businesses striving to make the energy world, safer, more efficient and more sustainable.

"The source of these great ideas and innovations has been the experience and capability of a workforce that has come predominately from the energy industry. Under their belts they carry years of understanding and first-hand experience of the dangers, challenges and demands of delivering safe, affordable energy for our communities.

"As the world hurtles towards a successful net zero transition, we have already seen the evolution of Grey Matter businesses that have environmental protection and carbon footprint reduction at the heart of their purpose - Sentinel Subsea, Recly8, ZeGen and DCarbon, to name a few.

"Climate change is the defining global challenge of our generation. COVID-19 has accelerated societal engagement in a net zero future. We have witnessed a growing number of household-name businesses announce their own net zero targets; these pledges marked an immensely difficult year with hope.

"The shift towards net zero will affect us all, and there is a powerful symbolism when major players with traditional high carbon footprint commit to rapid decarbonation. But the current pace of change is far behind the pace we need.

"As we move into the next Grey Matters Cohort, our objective is to fundamentally support the change in how north-east energy works. We are pioneering homegrown talent, diversifying the sector to develop new solutions which will support the industry’s – and Scotland’s, economic recovery. 

"Our Grey Matters Energy programme is a collective endeavour with Scottish Enterprise and the Net Zero Technology Centre (NZTC).

"Scottish Enterprise is committed to delivering a just transition that is fair to all, safeguarding and creating good, green, high value jobs. Aligning its High Growth Spinout Programme activity and Entrepreneurship projects with programmes to prioritise their contribution to their net zero aims.

"While the NZTC is developing and deploying technology for an affordable net zero energy industry and to establish a world class net zero energy supply chain.

"Our visions align, and each organisation is driven to supporting Scotland’s overarching ambitions. 

"This year, in the same month that COP-26 takes place in Glasgow, we aim to bring together the objectives and commitments of our partners, Scottish Enterprise, NZTC and Ledingham Chalmers in their Net Zero Transition journey by stimulating the launch of CLEAN ENERGY start-ups from our next cohort in the evolving Grey Matters story, building on the success and support of previous GM companies and Alumni." John Harris, Elevator Energy Director

Find out more about our programme by signing up to one of our virtual information sessions held on 8th, 15th and 22nd September.

Register for free here

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