What does it really take to grow a business in Wales? A brand-new podcast from Welsh ICE, created in partnership with the British Business Bank, is set to reveal exactly that.
How They Funded It is a six-part series that dives into the stories of Welsh entrepreneurs who have unlocked the finance they needed to scale. Hosted by Welsh ICE CEO Lesley Williams, each episode uncovers a different funding journey, from loans and equity, to grants and beyond.
The first episode, launching on the 8th of October, introduces listeners to Wizard Eco, a Wales-based company delivering more than 500 sustainable home retrofits every year. From solar panels and air source heat pumps to insulation under the Government’s ECO4 and GBIS schemes, Wizard Eco helps households slash energy costs and carbon emissions.
Wizard Eco secured £400,000 in working capital funding through the Investment Fund for Wales. This support gave the business the working capital to expand its team, invest in a new renewable energy hub, and win major contracts with national utility companies.
Reflecting on this turning point, Director of Renewable Technologies Callum Hiscott said:
“Like any business, you get to a point where you’ve grown really nicely, you’ve got good revenue coming in and lots of jobs on the table. But then you need that extra boost to move into the next phase of growth. That’s where the funding from FW Capital really came in to help.”
Host and Welsh ICE CEO, Lesley Williams added:
“So many businesses face the same challenge: how to access the right kind of funding, at the right time, to make their ambitions a reality. This podcast shares practical examples, but it also celebrates the inspiring journeys of Welsh entrepreneurs who have taken that step.”
Jessica Phillips-Harris, Senior Manager for Wales at the British Business Bank, said:
“We’re pleased to partner with Welsh ICE on this new series, shining a light on the many ways finance can unlock ambition and success for businesses across Wales.”
Future episodes will feature entrepreneurs from a wide range of industries, each showcasing a different path to finance and the growth that followed.
The first episode of How They Funded It is available from the 8th of October via the Welsh ICE website and Spotify. Further episodes will release fortnightly.
