Harborough Energy crowdfunder bid aims for £5000 M&S prize
Ideal client and local green energy co-operative Harborough Energy has set in motion an exciting new crowdfunding initiative prior to the launch of its second energy share offer in a bid to win £5000 in prize money from high street retailer M&S Energy. Established in 2014, Harborough Energy aims to provide the local area with clean, affordable energy.
Sustainable energy for the future
Following the successful completion of a 57kW solar energy project in 2016, Harborough Energy is working towards the installation of an ambitious 150kW project in partnership with NBJ (London) Ltd, a local high quality joinery business. “Running a large share offer has various costs associated with it. Rather than adding these to the future costs of the co-operative, we have taken the decision to run a crowdfunder asking people to support us in raising the funds needed for these costs,” explains Gavin Fletcher, one of the directors of Harborough Energy. “This is an exciting innovation which will not only help us with costs, but generate much-needed supporters and raise our profile.”
The crowdfunder campaign will help to raise funds for costs previously covered by Big Lottery funding. Harborough Energy is hoping that a successful campaign could also help them win one of two £5000 prizes up for grabs from Marks and Spencer.
M&S Energy is offering £10,000 for two community projects that deliver the benefits of renewables and energy efficiency to their community. The first prize of £5,000 will go to the group that demonstrates community backing by gaining the highest number of supporters. The second prize of £5000 will be awarded to the project that raises the most money, proving that local people will pull together to support initiatives that are important to them.
How does crowdfunding work?
Crowdfunding works by asking people to pledge to support a project in return for rewards. Supporters can pledge in multiples of five, starting from £5. Harborough Energy has teamed up with Langton Brewery and one of the rewards supporters can receive is a limited edition Harborough Energy beer brewed exclusively to celebrate the project.
Anyone can support the initiative by visiting www.crowdfunder.co.uk/harboroughsolarone or by following the link from the Harborough Energy website. The crowdfunder campaign will run until July 16th.
If you would like advice on publicising your crowdfunding campaign, a new business initiative or community project, contact jess@idealmarketingcompany.com or call to speak to any of the team on 01858 374 170.
