An event to get green projects off the ground in Leeds is attracting significant interest from investors and financial services.

More than 100 people from Leeds businesses, services and organisations are expected at the launch of the Project Development and Finance networking event on 1 May at Cloth Hall Court (pictured), which aims to help realise energy saving projects and stimulate a thriving low carbon economy.

The event is the initiative of Leeds Climate Commission and will assist local organisations with the identification and evaluation of projects, preparation of business models and cases for investment – and, crucially, link them with potential investors.

Speakers and panellists at the event include: Andy Gouldson, Professor of Environmental Policy, University of Leeds; David Kilduff, Partner, Walker Morris LLP; Mike Dunn, founding director and co-owner of Iona Capital Ltd; Polly Billington, Director, UK100; Richard Knights, Associate Director, Arup; Graham Mackenzie, Investment Director, Iona Capital Ltd; Louise O'Brien, Managing Director, Greyhound Box Ltd; Peter Vickers, Chairman of Benjn. R. Vickers & Sons Ltd and Philip Holdgate, Project Lead, Sustainable Productions, ITV.

Professor Gouldson, Chair of Leeds Climate Commission, said: “There are huge opportunities in the green economy, but we need to stimulate major flows of investment to unlock these. This event showcases organisations that have made successful green investments and outlines the support available for others seeking to do the same.

“It will bring together organisations interested in securing green finance with investors who are able to provide it and discuss the steps needed to champion investments in Leeds.”

David Kilduff, Chair of the Climate Commission’s Project Development and Finance Group, said: “There are some real opportunities for business to deliver carbon savings and improve their bottom line. This event is all about ensuring business understands that the low carbon economy is financially attractive and within reach.”

The event will showcase the experiences of organisations that have secured investment for energy and low carbon projects, present insights from organisations specialising in project development and explore business models and financing arrangements.

It will also be used to introduce and invite participation in the next stages in Leeds Climate Commission’s special initiative to advance green projects in the city.

The event takes place at Cloth Hall Court, Quebec Street, from 16.00-19.00 on  Tuesday 1 May and pre-booking is essential. 

Research by the University of Leeds shows that investment in profitable low carbon, climate resilient developments could result in annual savings of £272 million for Leeds, equivalent to £349 per person. Read the executive summary

View Professor Andy Gouldson’s presentation on the economic case for climate action in Leeds