Foothold Cymru, the lead organisation in a partnership with Antur Cymru, Planed, and Menter Gorllewin Sir Gar, is delighted to announce the award of £3,153,491 from Dormant Funds which is managed by the National Lottery Community Fund.
This transformative funding will support young people (16 to 30 years of age) with disabilities and those from minority ethnic communities across Powys, Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire, and Pembrokeshire, opening doors to exciting opportunities in the fast-growing green economy.
Mike Theodoulou, CEO of Foothold Cymru, shared his enthusiasm:
“This funding is a vital step toward breaking down the barriers that prevent so many young people from accessing green careers. Together with our partners, we are committed to creating clear and accessible pathways into this thriving sector—one that is critical for tackling climate change and building a sustainable future.
This initiative is about more than just employment, it’s about empowering young people to take control of their futures while contributing to solutions for global challenges like climate change. By equipping them with the skills they need to thrive in this sector, we are investing in a generation of changemakers who will lead Wales toward a greener, more inclusive economy.”
Research conducted by Foothold Cymru has revealed that young people from minority ethnic backgrounds or with disabilities face significant challenges in engaging with the green economy. A key barrier identified is the lack of visible role models within the sector, which makes it difficult for these groups to envision themselves in such roles. Additionally, many young people are unaware of the diverse opportunities available in the green economy—ranging from renewable energy engineering to roles in zero-waste initiatives and environmental consultancy.
The Porth Gwyrdd project will address these challenges over the next five years by:
- Raising awareness of green career opportunities through targeted outreach and engagement.
- Providing tailored support, training, paid and unpaid work experience placements to build confidence and skills.
- Working closely with employers to ensure inclusive practices and create accessible job opportunities for underrepresented groups.
The nearly £3.2 million grant is part of the Sustainable Steps Wales programme, which aims to reduce carbon emissions, restore nature, and adapt to climate change while fostering diversity within the workforce. Projects like this not only create opportunities for individuals but also strengthen communities across Wales by building a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
Foothold Cymru and its partners are determined to ensure that no young person is left behind as Wales transitions toward a greener economy. This initiative will leave a legacy of empowerment, sustainability, and opportunity across the region helping Wales lead the way in building a brighter future for generations to come.
