30.4.2025 | Ports

Six months after the launch of targeted investments through Freeport East’s Clean Growth Fund and Skills & Innovation Fund, local businesses are reporting strong progress in workplace development, green innovation, and sustainable growth.

The Freeport East Clean Growth Fund offers financial assistance to local businesses operating in clean energy and Freeport East’s other target sectors, including green hydrogen, agritech, engineering, and digital. Meanwhile, the Freeport East Innovation and Skills Fund focuses on building access to innovation and skills opportunities, particularly in underserved communities and in sectors relevant to the Freeport East area, such as clean energy, logistics and trade.

Since the funding was allocated, fifteen businesses across East Anglia, including those in clean energy, infrastructure, agriculture and MedTech, have drawn down around £135,000 worth of the grant funds, helping to support employment, education and green technology in the area.

One firm benefiting from the fund is Felixstowe-based Road to Logistics. Tackling critical skills shortages in the transport sector, its training programme supports individuals who face barriers to employment, helping rebuild confidence and independence. Seven candidates are currently progressing through the scheme; three have already qualified to drive large goods vehicles (Category C&E) with local companies, such as Maritime Transport, which is stepping up to offer employment opportunities.

Jennifer Swain, Director of Talent, Development & HR at Road to Logistics, says: “Road to Logistics is a not-for-profit supporting vulnerable and marginalised individuals into training and employment in logistics. We rely on funding and donations to operate, to remove the barrier of license acquisition costs for our learners. Freeport East has been so supportive, not only providing us with funding but also making introductions to local employers. We are extremely grateful to be able to support community members to change their lives for the better, thanks to the funding from Freeport East.”