A decarbonisation consultancy founded on Tyneside has been awarded a Newcastle University Foundership, which it hopes will kick start its expansion.
Tribe Solutions was started by Newcastle University graduates Richard Airey and Sean Jobling and has developed an online tool that aims to speed up decarbonisation planning in buildings. The pair’s product evaluates building performance and identifies cost-effective ways to decarbonise through use of heat and energy.
The Hoults Yard-based business has now completed the university Start Up team’s Foundership programme, which supports high-potential graduate entrepreneurs with funding, mentorship and access to the innovation ecosystem. Tribe completed the scheme with the support of Simon Green and Alan Holmes from Edge Innovation, alongside Mark Turner, head of research Software Engineering at Newcastle University.
Organisers say the pair’s achievement reflects their business’ market opportunity and their own track record in sustainability and energy efficiency. Mr Airey, an MBA graduate, said: “Over the last six months, we’ve been on an exciting period of discovery. The Founderships programme has helped us refine our business model, clarify our product vision, and accelerate the development of what Tribe Solutions can offer. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved in such a short time and excited about what’s next.”
Mr Jobling, a clean technology graduate, added: “We’re looking forward to continued working with the university beyond Start Up and decarbonisation, including opportunities to innovate across our growing portfolio with university colleagues and graduates. Our growth plans include a Utility Bureau and we have recently launched a fully funded net zero solution: ‘GO as a Service’ at www.GO-aaS.co.uk.”
Claire Adamson, senior manager for Entrepreneurship and Start Up at Newcastle University, said: “Tribe’s work is a fantastic example of how our graduates are tackling real-world challenges with scalable solutions. The team’s credibility and commitment is truly inspiring, and we’re proud to support the business.”
Peter Roberts, founder and director of Pure Gym and long-time champion of the Newcastle University Start Up team, added: “Tribe Solutions exemplifies the innovation and impact we strive to foster. Its journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when ambition meets the right support.”
The competitive Founderships programme is said to have supported 36 businesses, created more than 640 jobs and generated more than £127m in turnover. Tribe joins other North East entrepreneurial success stories including energy saving specialist Equiwatt, utilities payment specialist One Utility Bill and Ouseburn craft beer firm Donzoko Brewing Company.
