20th June 2025
A major Cornwall College Group-led initiative aimed at developing the green skills essential for the region’s future economy has received a significant funding extension, following the success of its first phase.
The Future is Green – a multi-million-pound programme focused on high-growth, carbon reduction sectors that are strategically important to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly – has been awarded an additional £1.6 million to extend its green skills development work until March 2026.
Cornwall College Group (CCG) leads the project, working alongside eight other partners across the Southwest peninsula delivering different strands. CCG will receive over £333,000 to continue delivering specialist training in in renewables, sustainability and carbon literacy to the transport, construction and agri-food sectors.
Lisa Pill, Director of Estates and Capital at Cornwall College Group, welcomed the announcement: “This extension is a fantastic opportunity to create more sustainable prospects for the people of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.”
Lisa continued: “This funding will help develop the green skills needed for a sustainable future. By continuing to invest in this vital sector, we’re not only addressing the immediate needs of the green economy but also empowering local businesses and individuals to take the lead in the transition to a low-carbon world. We’ve seen first-hand how crucial this project has been for the local economy, and we’re excited to continue building a resilient, future-ready workforce in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.”
The programme is funded through the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth programme, managed by Cornwall Council and supported by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
During the first phase of the programme, multiple training initiatives were delivered by partners, exceeding projected outcomes across all priority areas.
In high carbon sectors, 503 people gained a qualification—more than double the target of 216. Green skills training also outperformed expectations, with 476 people gaining a qualification against a target of 309. The project far exceeded its contribution towards the Good Growth principles, reporting an overall achievement of 426 against a combined target of 255, clearly demonstrating the project’s commitment to supporting underrepresented groups.
Cornwall College Group and its partners remain committed to equipping the region’s workforce with the skills, knowledge and leadership required to thrive in a sustainable, low-carbon future.
The Future is Green project will now run until March 2026. For more information please visit The Future is Green – Cornwall College.
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2026. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK by investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus
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