Greener by Design for Next-Gen Innovation.

Slough has long been a centre of innovation, from the rise of the industrial estate to its modern-day role as a hub for tech and enterprise. Today, progress is taking a new, greener direction. As the world faces growing environmental challenges, Slough is stepping up to champion bio-design and sustainable materials innovation, harnessing nature and science to build a more resilient, eco-conscious future.

A celebration of innovation

Slough’s first-ever Start-Up Festival, LaunchPad 2025, brought together more than 100 entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, and residents to celebrate innovation, community, and ambition. The event was hosted by Viva Slough in collaboration with Plus X Innovation and proudly supported by Slough Borough Council.

The festival gave a diverse set of startups a platform to showcase the innovative new way of doing business. A highlight was the Best Start-Up in Slough Competition, recognising the exceptional ventures based on innovation, business model, community benefit, and scalability. The Judge’s Choice winner was announced as Organico, a business dedicated to sustainability and transforming waste into valuable resources.

Pat Hayes, Executive Director of Housing, Property, and Regeneration at Slough Borough Council says: “From grassroots start-ups to global players, we’re creating the conditions for businesses to thrive while contributing to a healthier planet. Supporting next-generation talent and environmentally responsible design is driving real change and is central to how Slough is building for the future.”

Key global hub for data centre capacity

Global developer, owner, and operator of hyperscale data centres, Yondr Group, has brought the first 10 MW of capacity online at its second data centre in Slough, the first phase of operations at the 30 MW facility.

The Slough facility includes features designed to reduce environmental impact, including rooftop solar panels, a green façade with a dedicated horticultural plan, and electric vehicle charging points. The development was carried out in consultation with Slough Borough Council and the Canal & River Trust. In addition to remediation to remove legacy industrial contaminants, the project includes local infrastructure improvements, including an upgraded cycleway and new habitats for wildlife. 

Furthermore, Yondr Group is actively investing in local talent. The company has launched a dedicated apprenticeship programme that aims to place four apprentices at the Slough campus by the end of next year, opening the door to exciting careers in green technology, engineering, and data infrastructure. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals in Slough, helping young people access high-quality training, gain real-world experience in the sustainable tech sector, and build careers that contribute to a greener, more connected future.

Finding funding

For businesses pushing the boundaries of green innovation, Slough is a place where ideas can grow with the right support. Whether you're working in bio-design, clean tech, or sustainable construction, there are several local and regional programmes designed to help your business thrive.

Slough Borough Council Sustainable Travel Grant

Businesses in Slough can access up to £2,000 to support sustainable travel initiatives for employees, perfect for those in the green tech space aiming to lead by example. Funding can be used for things like secure cycle storage, electric vehicle charging points, and more.Find out more: https://www.slough.gov.uk/transport-travel/sustainable-travel-grant-scheme

Slough BID

Entrepreneurs can also turn to local organisations like Slough BID, who offer business mentoring, local events, and sometimes smaller development grants. These groups provide networking opportunities, practical advice, and access to local funding calls. Find out more: https://sloughbid.co.uk/business-support/

A greener future

With purpose-built infrastructure, investment in young talent, and access to funding opportunities, Slough is fast becoming a place where green innovation can take root and grow. As more businesses like Organico, Yondr Group, and others lead the way, the town continues to evolve into a hub for sustainable enterprise, designed not just for today, but for the next generation and beyond.