The energy efficient way to keep fit

Eco Gym is among the first enterprises to benefit from grants from the university’s Green Growth Platform which supports green-sector businesses.

A spokesperson for Eco Gym said: “We are taking the EcoGym concept across the country. LoCASE and the Green Growth Platform have helped us get really helpful specialist advice on developing our business model and protecting our intellectual property.”

The Platform is part of the European Regional Development Fund’s ‘Low Carbon Across the South East (LoCASE)’ business grant programme.

The programme provides grants and business support to low carbon small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to help them grow and develop new products and services. It also provides grants and free environmental audits to any type of SME to help improve their environmental performance, such as reducing energy costs or installing renewable energy systems.

Eco Gym is run by Andy Little, left, and Paul Crane

Zoe Osmond, Director of the Green Growth Platform, said: “Eco Gym is an excellent example of a business that cares about the environment. The public demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products and services is growing by the day and it is vital for companies to respond.”

To date, the Platform has awarded £250,000 worth of business development grants to SMEs in East Sussex. Grants of up to £10,000 are being offered to green-focused SME’s for marketing, equipment, electric vehicles and machinery. The grant will cover 40 per cent of the costs and the business contributes 60 per cent.

OSET Bikes in St Leonards, a world leader in the design and manufacture of electric trials and motocross motorcycles, received a grant to help fit energy-efficient lighting in the company’s new factory and to upgrade its intelligent computer-aided design systems.

Zero Kitchens in Uckfield, uses straw board, recycled plastics and bespoke glass worktops to help house builders and refurbishes reduce carbon footprint in homes. Founder Tim Burgess said: “Access to expertise and a contribution of 40 per cent towards development of our marketing strategy and new website has led to increasing numbers of enquiries for our kitchens.”

Ecosphere Renewables in East Hoathly near Lewes has installed over four megawatts of solar panels across the South. Founding partner Zoe Forbes said: “Our LoCASE grant has helped us prioritise our investment choices and improve our customer service. Ours is a very dynamic business and we rely on accurate information to stay ahead of demand and maintaining quality.”

LED-UK in Eastbourne is bringing low-consumption lighting to businesses across the South. Director Steve Marshall said, “LoCASE came at the right time for us. The grant has contributed 40 per cent towards our marketing spend. That is significant input for a small, growing business. We are also benefitting hugely from our Green Growth Platform membership.”